Open Floor, No Offices for Anyone

““Offices are for mediocre people who like to hide behind their doors and play games, et cetera.””

“People are in the office to work. Workers who want privacy may leave their tables and look for a quiet place to deal with their personal lives, but that must be the exception, not the rule. When work requires privacy, as in the case of confidential matters, staff can use conference rooms. Another important pro of open floor plans is what I will call approachability. Open setups enhance constant communication between different hierarchical levels. Corner offices, or just walled offices, impose a kind of respect that is detrimental; it imposes fear and shame on workers if they “interrupt” superiors’ privacy. But talking to your boss is not, and should not be seen, as interruption. It is an essential part of a healthy work environment.”