We've all heard how open office layouts can improve workplace productivity. Have you ever thought how your office organizational culture and office space layout would mesh? If you haven’t, it’s probably a good idea to consider certain criteria before making any office interior design decisions. We outline the aspects to consider before transforming a traditional office into an open-space layout.
The Need for Privacy
How sensitive is the information that is discussed in your office on a daily basis? If privacy in the workplace is a concern, consider implementing an office space layout with private offices and meeting areas incorporated throughout. Phone calls and one-on-one conversations can sometimes be challenging in an open office, where co-workers are constantly in close proximity.
Is Open Communication a Necessity?
Does your organizational culture stress teamwork and communication? If so, then an office space layout may be the right choice for your company. Marketing and sales professionals can benefit from face-to-face time. On the other hand, accounting and law personnel may prefer the integration of a mixed office layout in which there are common areas along with private offices, in times when concentration is needed.
What is Your Budget?
Consider your budget allotment for your interior design project. If cost effectiveness is on your mind, then office space layouts are more budget friendly versus having private offices. These spaces can fit more employees and come with substantially lower material costs.
Is Your Company Growing?
Predict the amount of growth you will experience and consider it before deciding whether to have an open office or not. If in the near future you’re looking to add staff members and expand business, you may want to consider an open office layout. These layouts can accommodate more staff members. Open space layouts are also flexible and adaptable to business and organizations changes.
Gather Employee Feedback
Make sure to gather feedback from employees before making any decisions. They will ultimately be the personnel who are impacted the most by such changes. If staff members prefer privacy, it may not be a good idea to implement an open office layout.
Are you interested in revamping your office space? Download our whitepaper on “A Guide to Agile Organizations” for some design inspiration.
