Thanks all for the responses!
bcpid:
When I worked in that kind of environment, I frequently (most of the time) found myself migrating to an isolated conference room in order to focus. It’s also really hard to get anything done when you’re on edge because you feel like you’re being watched, whether true or not. Having meetings in the open would be super distracting too - I like to meet in private to both manage the flow of project information, and also to not distract coworkers that are busy working on their own projects. I find it hard to tune out conversation if I know the subject.
I will try to get more conference room time. I couldn’t put it in words, but you exactly described how being on edge from being in the open feels.
Get some nice noise canceling headphones. I’m sure the company will be fine with it. Everyone needs to focus in from time to time. I’ve worked in both cube farms and open offices and much much more prefer the open offices. When I had the opportunity to design our space I made it open, even the conference area is open. This way everyone can hear everything if they want to. No secrets. I think the key to making it work are:
music for everyone (we have 5 speakers wirelessly networked and a tablet to DJ)
people are able to wear headphones to focus in
allow people to work in conference rooms or from home when needed, I do it as well when I really need to focus
have some phone booths, we also have easy access to the outside which is quiet here so lots of people take calls or do one on one meetings outside
That said, it is not for everyone. some people can adapt to it, others can’t.
It is good to hear someone else’s side of it too. Have you heard any complaints, especially from the more reserved types of people? These all sound like good ways to compromise with an open space. All the more reason for a combination of open / private spaces also.
Headphones seem popular! I notice when I wear them that people seem even more likely to start chatting about non-design related things … but that is probably my imagination. Good suggestion to bring it up to my manager.
Jboogie941:
We have an open layout also and deal with the same frustrations as you. Hopefully we will be changing offices soon. Not really much I can offer you as a reprieve maybe say a few Woosahhh’s.
I had to google Woosah but I like that idea
Thanks again.
