Open Space
- Open-plan offices are making way for the modern open-space concept
- Open-space solutions offer many advantages, which can boost both creativity and productivity in the workplace
- Privacy filters are a key way of maintaining the privacy of individual employees
From open-plan offices to open spaces
Open-plan offices frequently carry a negative image with them. They are often accused of preventing concentration. The atmosphere is loud, busy and disorganised, which could be one reason why only 15% of office staff work in open-plan offices in Germany. The open-space concept comprises brand new features that bring the open-plan office into the next generation.
What is an open-space office?
Open spaces can be described as large, open rooms that are divided into different areas. These include workspaces for office staff, yet without an official seating plan. Other key elements include areas for breaks and meetings, designed to relieve the stress of office life. Another key feature of open spaces are quiet zones for completing tasks that require extra concentration.
What are the benefits of open spaces?
Open spaces offer several advantages. They help improve dynamics between employees, while also facilitating communication by bringing everyone closer together. Processes become more transparent and problems can be solved quicker and more easily. The number one objective, however, is to increase employees’ creativity and efficiency.
How can I keep my privacy in an open space?
Working in an open space is also associated with certain negative aspects. Introverts, for example, often find it difficult to work in open spaces because the lower level of privacy found in these offices is perceived as a disadvantage. Particularly in the case of confidential tasks, data protection is of utmost importance. Privacy filters are one way of maintaining confidentiality. These are special films that are applied to computer screens to restrict the angle of viewing to 60°, thus protecting sensitive data from unwanted eyes.