There’s a lot to consider when it comes to purchasing office furniture. One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether you want your workspace to be open or closed. There are lots of benefits to both sides; however, one may fit your needs more than the other. Let’s look at some open vs closed workspaces to compare! workspace design
Open Workspaces
PROS:
There’s a huge up side to working in an open office environment. For starters, your employees and coworkers will have a more social setting, allowing everyone to have conversations that cover topics outside of work. This bonding makes for a strong team, and a strong team makes for a strong company.
Open workspaces allow your employees to move about more freely, rather than be crammed in a cubicle. This gives your staff the ability to stretch, look around, and take a mental break when needed. This promotes an efficient and successful work environment.
Finally, open workspaces carry a more updated and modern aesthetic with them. Not only does this empower your employees, but it makes a powerful statement to all who enter your facility. workspace design
CONS:
On the other hand, open workspaces, when not furnished properly, can cause things to become inefficient. For example, using an open workspace would not be ideal in a 100-person call center. workspace design
A HAPPY MEDIUM:
There are still ways to have an open workspace with dividers or workstations with privacy walls. Check out Iron Age Office’s workstation product line, where you’ll find a variety of workstations to fit your needs.
Closed Workspaces
The first thing that comes to mind when thinking of “closed workspace” is the classic cubicle farm, however, there are lots of ways around that.
PROS:
Closed workspaces can provide privacy if needed. Referring to the example above, you’re probably going to want a closed office space if you have a 100-person call center.
When it comes to staying sanitary and healthy, closed office spaces also are a great choice. With divider walls, the chances of germs being transferred is minimal. That being said, you can still achieve an open workspace atmosphere, while maintaining a closed workspace. Click here to find out how.
CONS:
Closed workspaces are becoming more antiquated. There isn’t any aesthetic appeal to the furniture, so no statement is made to clients either.
Closed workspaces also seclude coworkers from one another. Discouraging coworker relations, which in turn hurts efficiency and productivity.
As you can see, there are many advantages and disadvantages to both closed and open workspaces. At the end of the day, it truly depends on the needs of your employees.
At Iron Age Office, we firmly believe that the highest quality offices give birth to the highest quality work. Reach out today and see what we can do for you.