Lower productivity in open plan offices

A recent study shows that working in open plan offices reduces performance and increases fatigue. It’s not an easy environment in which to be productive.

Easy to put up, easy to reconfigure, there is no privacy and little to stop noise, voices and ringing phones carrying across the office space.

You’re separated from your neighbours by a short partition. In some offices the height and construction may vary but you can still hear the conversation or ad-hoc ‘desk meetings’ going on next door, whether or not you want to or if it’s relevant to you.

We all know people who have especially loud voices or who, from their own sense of self-importance, want everyone to hear their conversation.

As a reformed cubicle worker, and Dilbert devotee – I spent years working in the open plan office environment, so I’m aware of what goes on. And that was before everyone had a mobile phone to add to the noise and distraction.

The idea of an open-plan office environment was to improve communication and reduce the office hierarchy as well as save costs. However the reality is that you suffer from far more noise, distractions and interruptions. People can see you’re at your desk and won’t think twice about interrupting without the barrier of an office door.

Tips for an open office to increase  your productivity

Some people can work in a noisy environment, others can’t. Some tasks need focus and attention, others don’t.

  • Book a meeting room or arrange to work from home if you need quiet undisturbed time.
  • Create boundaries (not necessarily physical) around your time and space. If you get interrupted at your desk – manage the interruption. Do you want or need to deal with it right now or can you ask them to come back later?
  • Respect other people in and around your space. If you’re having a ‘chat’ do it away from where you may be disturbing others.
  • If you’re having a meeting with colleagues either book a room or be aware of other people working around you.
  • Try noise cancelling headphones or playing ‘white noise’ to minimise the noisy distraction of an open office.  If you’re listening to music – don’t have it too loud to completely block out the office noise, not only you could damage your hearing but you’ll probably annoy others around you if they can here it too.

Do you find you thrive or struggle in an open office?

Share on Social

Posted in

I'm a Time Management and Productivity Coach and the Author of "Time Management For Dummies". Together we'll work to change, improve and adjust. Create a positive impact on your working environment, your team, your colleagues, your family and friends.

  • Be more productive and efficient.

  • Reduce your working hours.

  • No longer work late in the evening or at weekends.

  • Have a better balance between your work and personal life.

  • Reduce and manage your stress

  • Enjoy your work and life more

Free Time Quiz

How Good Are Your Time Management Habits? Find out how and where you can make a few quick and easy changes to make your life easier starting TODAY.