20 Feb Productivity in the Workplace: Privacy Rooms vs. Open Areas with Modular Walls

As the world becomes increasingly reliant on technology and remote work becomes more prevalent, the debate over the most productive workplace setting has resurfaced. Some argue that isolated rooms or private offices are the way to go, while others believe that open areas with modular walls are the future of the modern workplace. How can you possibly combine the “open office” concept with the need for “privacy?” Let’s explore.

On the one hand, office pods or private offices provide a level of privacy and quiet that can be conducive to focused work. Without the distractions of a bustling open office, employees can more easily concentrate on their tasks and get more done. These types of spaces can also be useful for important meetings or phone calls that require a high level of privacy. One of the most significant downsides of the open office concept is the excessive noise levels that can result. When you have a group of people working in close proximity to each other, the sound of conversations, ringing phones, and other distractions can become overwhelming. This can be especially problematic for individuals who are working on complex or technical problems that require intense concentration. Studies have shown that excessive noise levels can cause stress, reduce productivity, and even lead to health problems.

While office pods can offer a quiet and private space to work, they can also have drawbacks such as creating a sense of isolation from the team and potentially leading to a lack of collaboration and communication. Therefore, it is important to consider whether staying in an isolated room for long periods of time may not be the best option to build a team. Use them as a space to have one-on-one conversations, meetings with others but not used as a place to isolate. Provide both a privacy space and an open area for everybody to collaborate.

While the open office concept has its advantages, it’s essential to find a balance between collaboration and privacy. One potential solution is the use of modular office pods within an open office. These pods provide a designated space for employees to work on individual tasks or have private conversations without being disturbed by the noise and activity of the surrounding workspace. The pods can also be soundproofed to reduce distractions, making them ideal for employees who need to focus on complex tasks.

Open Areas with Modular Walls: a Hybrid Solution

Here’s another solution: open areas with modular walls offer a more collaborative and open work environment. These types of spaces can be easily configured to fit the needs of the team, whether that means setting up a large conference room for a meeting or creating smaller breakout areas for group work. Modular walls also allow for a level of privacy and sound control, so employees can still have a quiet place to focus if needed.

One of the main benefits of open areas with modular walls is their cost-effectiveness. They can be built and modified at a lower cost than traditional private offices, and they allow businesses to make the most of their space. In addition, they encourage collaboration and communication among team members, which can lead to increased productivity.

Ultimately, the best workplace setting will depend on the needs and preferences of the team. Some employees may thrive in an isolated room, while others may prefer the openness and flexibility of an open area with modular walls. It’s important for businesses to consider the pros and cons of both options and determine which one will work best for their team.

If you manage an “open office” yet want to explore “office pods” as well as “open areas with modular walls,” reach out to our engineering teams. They are happy to consult with you on best-in-class office pods and modular wall solutions.