Open space offices are very popular today. They are modern, promote communication and teamwork, and for many are a symbol of a dynamic working environment. But how does it actually work? Is it really a one-size-fits-all solution, or does it have its downsides? To take a realistic look, we reached out to our partner and interviewed one of their employees, Tatiana. Their open space is divided into two large sections, one with employees who have been with the company longer, and the other with the “young spirit”. How does it really work for them?
The proximity that has two sides
One of the biggest advantages of open space offices is the proximity between employees. “In open space we are all close, we have to be friends like family. You get to know everyone and their habits and their vices,” says Tánička. This closeness fosters fast and effective communication, which can be a huge benefit for teamwork. Employees can quickly share ideas, solve problems and respond immediately to situations as they arise.
“Fast communication is key for us. I don’t have to go door to door and we sort it out straight away. You just say the problem out loud and everyone gets involved in the solution and others listen, so they know how to deal with it in the future.”
On the other hand, this constant proximity can also create tension. “You get angry, too, but you make up because you see him all the time, and that would be bad for your job. It’s such a psychological move,” he adds. When you’re constantly in contact with your colleagues, it can lead to frustrations and conflicts that have to be dealt with on the spot. And not everyone is ready for that dynamic.
Noise and privacy: the challenges of everyday functioning
One of the biggest problems of open space offices is noise. Constant conversations, phone calls, the sounds of keyboards – it can all interfere with concentration and reduce productivity. “We often get distracted by something, but we have headphones for that,” admits Tánička. Headphones are becoming an essential tool for those who need silence to work.
Headphones are the solution, but that doesn’t mean it’s ideal. The lack of personal space can be frustrating, especially for those who prefer to work in a quiet and private environment. Therefore, it is advisable to have compartments set up for those who need to work alone in silence.
Spontaneous communication versus the need for focus
Spontaneous communication is one of the main benefits of open space offices. “We laugh a lot, and when a customer makes you angry, you just say something out loud and others join in right away,” he describes. This ability to instantly communicate and share information can strengthen team spirit and improve the working atmosphere.
But there is a catch. If you need to work on a demanding task that requires deep concentration, constant interruptions and conversations can be a big problem. “When you really have to work and other people don’t, you’d rather kick everyone’s ass,” he admits. These situations can lead to frustration and a drop in productivity, especially when everyone is trying to work at their own pace and in their own way.
Open Space – Not always the ideal solution
Open space offices can be a great solution for companies that emphasize teamwork and fast communication. But they can also be a source of stress, frustration and reduced productivity if not properly designed and managed. It’s important to consider the needs of all employees and create an environment that allows them to work efficiently and comfortably.
For companies considering open space implementation, it is crucial to look not only at the advantages, but also at the potential disadvantages. Not every employee is built to work in such an environment, so it is important to strike a balance between openness and the need for privacy, between spontaneous communication and the need for focus.
How to find out which space is ideal for you? Ask those who work in it directly. Or buy everyone a new pair of headphones for Christmas!
