Open-plan offices are a popular choice among businesses more so now than ever, offering unique benefits and more efficient working environments. Not only that, but they’re a cost-effective solution that promotes socialising and collaborative working which provides advantages for small and medium businesses.
That doesn’t mean there aren’t any drawbacks to an open plan office layout. Here are some of the key advantages along with pros and cons of open plan offices to consider when weighing up whether an open office is right for your business.
Get in touch with our office fitout professionals today by calling 1300 368 461 to start planning your new and improved office space!
Advantages and Disadvantages of Open Office Layout
Advantages of Open Plan Layouts
Collaboration & Communication
Eliminating walls and bringing workstations together makes team members more accessible to one another in flexible configurations. This improves communication among the team, which also results in improved collaboration throughout the business. With collaborative working environments, chance encounters are increased between employees – encouraging creativity, teamwork, support, and a sense of belonging.
Flexible & Customisable
Open plan offices are completely adaptable meaning organisations do not have to choose between several design options. This specific layout choice allows employers to fit more employees in one space in comparison to offices that utilise cubicle-style workstations. Being able to rearrange the office space when it’s convenient is beneficial to employers as it provides the opportunity to expand when needed, to minimise, or to simply refresh the layout of the office annually.
Things to Consider
Noise Levels
When it comes to pros and cons of open plan offices, there are definitely a lot of benefits that outweigh the setbacks – but that doesn’t mean you should ignore them as a whole. One thing to consider about this design aspect is noise travel. Working in an open area means it’s easier for your staff to become sidetracked by a colleague asking a question, another one on the phone discussing a sales deal, or a few others in the corner discussing weekend plans… you know how it goes. Regardless, it’s something to keep in mind and to ensure the team remains on track while socialising during work hours. It all comes down to work culture.
A Shift in Privacy
Open plan offices don’t provide as much privacy for employees who work together all day, as opposed to those who work within a cubicle. While this may help workers focus on their job, there are some drawbacks to it as well. Open office environments can be a little more daunting for those who consider themselves as introverts in the workplace, but extroverted people dislike being observed all of the time as well. As mentioned, it all comes down to work culture and how comfortable employees are alongside their colleagues.
Take Advantages and Disadvantages of Open Office Layout Into Consideration
If you’re thinking about changing things up in your office and wanting to engage a professional such as Future Fitouts to deliver a beautiful open plan office design, we’re here to discuss the ins-and-outs before starting the project for you. Knowing as much about your business beforehand is imperative to our team – this ensures we deliver an on-brand, stunning fitout that caters to your staff.
If you’re ready to get started with your office design and fitout, get in touch with our team on 1300 368 461 today. We’re here to make the process streamlined and stress-free for you, so that you can enjoy your new office space sooner rather than later. Additionally, request a quote on our website and we’ll be in touch!