Open-Office Floor Plans: One Size Does Not Fit Every Business

Mar 4, 2015 8:00 AM ET

Jason Richards

Vice President of Energy and Construction Services, Sodexo North America

In offices around the world, the open floor plan debate rages on. Do open office spaces allow for greater collaboration, increased energy and a free flow of creativity? Or do open areas create disruptions and distractions that ultimately kill performance? The answer to both questions is yes. And no.

Companies are investing big bucks in redesigns to reduce overhead costs while improving efficiency. CoreNet Global reports the average space per worker will drop to 151 square feet by 2017, a 33% reduction in less than a decade. Surveys show that 30-40% of worker spaces are unoccupied at any time—an inefficient use of space and money.

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