Nowadays, some buildings such as offices and schools have open-space design instead of separate rooms. Why is it so? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

A lack of walls or other physical barriers in offices makes it easier for employees to interact with each other on a regular basis. The constant intermingling not only generates a sense of camaraderie among personnel, it

also

enhances the flow of information and teamwork. Colleagues can turn to each other for advice or assistance without having to knock on doors or schedule a formal meeting. Interactions in an

open-plan

office

space

generally are more frequent and informal than in closed environments where everyone has a separate

office

space

. –

Business

Advantages The increased collaboration resulting from an

open-plan

work

space

can lead to

business

innovation and advancement. At the same time, an

open-plan

layout can benefit the

business

economically by reducing costs tied to construction, utilities and

office

equipment.

For example

, fewer walls mean less time and materials required to create the

office

space

. Having a single

work

space

also

may reduce heating/cooling and electricity expenses thanks to improved flow of air and light. Businesses can save on equipment investment as well, since communal spaces promote shared use of resources,

such

as printers, copiers and staplers. An

open-plan

space

also

provides greater flexibility to accommodate evolving personnel needs. Disadvantage – Staff Disadvantages On the downside, the high level of everyday interaction that takes place in an undivided

work

space

may lead to noise and distractions that make it difficult for employees to focus on their

work

and conduct

business

. Lack of privacy is another potential problem with

open-plan

office

spaces, where computer screens are easily visible by those walking by and telephone conversations are likely to be overheard.

Open-plan

layouts

also

facilitate the spread of disease, so if a colleague comes to

work

with a cold, it can affect the health of the entire staff. –

Business

Disadvantages Most of the factors that are disadvantages for personnel

also

are detrimental to the

business

as a whole.

For example

, the distractions caused by frequent interactions among staff members and high levels of noise can result in decreased productivity.

Business

output

also

may be reduced by the higher rate of absenteeism associated with

open-plan

environments in which disease spreads more easily.

In addition

, the lack of privacy inherent in

open-plan

designs may give rise to legal or ethical issues stemming from compromised confidentiality in regard to clients or colleagues.