For several years the square footage of workers private office space has been getting smaller. The trend is toward open concept work areas verses individual offices and cubicles. In those companies that still use office cubicles, workers find these shrinking, as well.
As technology is increasingly mobile, it effects the way we work and the spaces we work in. We are always connected with each other. We can (and do) work anywhere. The open concept work space is an extension of that.
Open office floor plans (ideally):
- Save money
- Encourage worker collaboration
- Promote creativity
- Increase productivity
- Attract younger talent
Some of the drawbacks can be: distraction, noise, lack of personal space and overhearing workers who talk too loud on the phone.
Nevertheless, traditional offices are on the way out and the open concept use will continue to grow.
Source: The New York Times
Source: Newtimes.com
Source: Entrepreneur
Source: Los Angeles Times
Source: Quartz
Bottom photo: DeathtoStockPhotos
Reinhart Commercial 