Open office floor plans have been around for a while, but for companies that have compartmentalized office spaces – that is, individual offices and segregated cubicles – taking walls down can be a huge shock and adjustment for employees used to working in their own space.
Recently we came across this interesting article on BBC.com that showcases how some innovative companies around the world are opening up their office spaces not only to save cost, but also to encourage collaboration, flexibility and work-life balance. Some employees love the change, while others find the adjustment challenging.
Being a small company, we're also embracing the open floor plan concept here at Lux. While some of us are used to open floor plans, a few of us are just getting used to working in such an environment. For the most part, though, our open office space has positively enhanced our team dynamic.
What we're finding is that the lack of walls is encouraging communication and impromptu meetings.
It's also built a culture of transparency that benefits all employees.
The only real downside: privacy.
But overall, the upsides to having an open office outweigh the downsides here at Lux. A solution to the privacy issue will be to eventually divide the large boardroom into two, making one side a private room to work or use the phone.
As of right now, employees are encouraged to work from home if they need to focus on a task undisturbed. Eventually, Claire sees the office also including a separate space that would be for her primary use, but that others could use when they need a private space.