Having an open plan office layout has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many employers ditching the desk dividers. They have been recognised as a way to promote collaboration, communication, and creativity among employees. Here are just some of the benefits of having an open plan office layout.
Enhanced collaboration with an open plan office layout
One of the most obvious benefits of an open plan office layout is that it leads to enhanced and more efficient collaboration. Open plan offices allow employees to work together more easily and communicate more effectively, which can lead to better teamwork, increased productivity, and improved problem-solving.
Collaboration is an essential component of success in today’s fast-paced and interconnected business world. By working together, individuals can leverage their collective skills and knowledge to hit important goals and set new ones. When people come together to work on a project, they can bring different ideas and perspectives to the table, which can spark new and innovative solutions to challenges.
Improved communication
With fewer walls and barriers, it’s easier for employees to communicate with each other, share ideas, and discuss projects. This can lead to a more cohesive team and a more positive work environment.
Effective communication is critical to the success of any organisation or business. Communication at work is not just about exchanging information, but also about building relationships, fostering teamwork, and creating a positive work environment. By encouraging open and honest communication, employees can share ideas, feedback, and perspectives, leading to better decision-making and problem-solving.
Increased flexibility with an open plan office layout
Open plan offices are often designed to be more flexible than traditional offices, with movable furniture and workstations that can be easily reconfigured to suit changing needs. This can make it easier to accommodate growth, new hires, or changes in work processes. Within an open-plan office you can still easily create breakout areas where meetings can take place or private discussions can be had.
The Covid-19 pandemic was a great example of when large, open-plan offices that could be rearranged to allow more space between desks had an advantage. You never know when you might need to switch up your office to accommodate important changes or new trends in office design.
More natural light
Open plan offices typically have larger windows and more natural light than traditional offices, which can help to improve employee performance. Switching out artificial light and opting for natural light (where possible) is a surefire way of boosting the mood in the office, especially on those sunny days! When employees aren’t left to work in small, dark spaces, you will be amazed at how much the levels of productivity increase.
Cost-effective
Open plan offices can be more cost-effective than traditional offices as they require fewer building materials (due to there being less square footage per employee). As they usually have large windows, the office space also warms up more quickly, meaning that the heating doesn’t have to be on as much. This reduction in energy bills is often a welcome consequence for employees, especially at the moment!
Open plan offices can also help to create a more dynamic and engaging work environment that attracts and retains top talent. By promoting a sense of community, open plan offices can help to create a positive and vibrant workplace culture that employees are proud to be a part of. This can lead to higher levels of engagement, job satisfaction, and employee retention, which can ultimately result in cost savings for the organisation.
Greater sense of community
Open plan offices can help to foster a sense of community and shared purpose among employees, as everyone is working together in the same space. This is a great opportunity for employees to get to know each other better, especially new starters, and increase team morale.
An open plan office layout can provide a range of communal spaces. From breakaway areas with soft furnishings where employees can unwind after a stressful pitch or meeting, to lounges designed for lunch breaks and after-work networking.
An open plan office layout encourages creativity
Open plan offices have the potential to boost levels of creativity and innovation by fostering a collaborative and communicative work environment. By – quite literally – breaking down barriers between employees and creating an open and inclusive workspace, an open plan office layout can help to encourage creativity and problem-solving.
When employees work in close proximity to one another in a comfortable environment, they are more likely to engage in spontaneous conversations and share ideas. This can lead to a free flow of information and creativity, as employees bounce ideas off one another and offer feedback and suggestions. What employer wouldn’t want this?!
Of course, your office must reflect your business and company values and needs. At HE Interiors, we offer high quality, tailored solutions to create your ideal office environment. Simply get in touch.
