A recent study sheds light on the ongoing debate surrounding open-plan versus private office spaces, revealing that the modern office design may be doing a disservice to our productivity. Conducted by researchers at a Spanish university, the findings suggest that open-plan environments require significantly more mental effort from employees, undermining their ability to concentrate and perform effectively.
The Study: A Closer Look at Office Environments
In a groundbreaking investigation, 26 participants, ranging in age from their mid-20s to mid-60s, were fitted with wireless electroencephalogram (EEG) headsets to monitor their brain activity. The study aimed to assess how different office settings impacted cognitive performance. Participants completed a series of simulated office tasks—such as managing notifications, responding to emails, and memorising word lists—while working in two distinct environments: an open-plan space teeming with colleagues and a small, enclosed work pod equipped with clear glass panels.
The researchers concentrated on the frontal lobe of the brain, which is pivotal for attention, focus, and filtering out distractions. They measured various brain waves, each of which reflects different states of mental activity. As neuroscientist Susan Hillier notes, these brain waves reveal the mental states associated with tasks requiring concentration, anxiety levels, relaxation, and even deep sleep.
The Findings: Open-Plan vs Private Pods
The results were striking. In the enclosed work pod, participants exhibited a marked decrease in beta waves, which are associated with active mental engagement, as well as alpha waves linked to passive attention. This indicated that individuals found the pod environment conducive to maintaining focus with less cognitive strain. Conversely, the open-plan setting led to a rise in gamma waves, indicative of complex mental processing, and an increase in theta waves, which signal mental fatigue. Notably, participants in the open office reported higher levels of both arousal and engagement, suggesting that they were exerting substantially more effort to sustain performance.
This disparity in brain activity underscores a critical point: even when employees attempt to ignore distractions, their brains are compelled to expend energy filtering them out. The work pod’s design effectively minimised background noise and visual interruptions, allowing for a smoother, more efficient cognitive process.
What Previous Research Reveals
This latest study aligns with a wealth of prior research that has highlighted the detrimental effects of open-plan designs. A 2021 study conducted by my colleagues and me demonstrated a clear correlation between noise in open offices and heightened physiological stress, with negative mood levels rising by 25% and stress levels by 34%. Additional investigations have shown that background chatter and noisy environments can significantly impair cognitive performance and elevate distraction levels among workers. A comprehensive analysis of over 42,000 office workers across the globe found that those in open-plan offices reported lower job satisfaction compared to their counterparts in private offices, primarily due to incessant noise and a lack of privacy.
As we acknowledge the physical discomfort caused by poorly designed office furniture, it is essential to recognise that workspace architecture can also lead to cognitive strain.
Rethinking Office Design for Enhanced Focus
In light of these findings, it becomes increasingly clear that fostering an environment conducive to concentration is crucial for modern knowledge work. Despite this, the significance of uninterrupted work remains largely overlooked in office design. Creating dedicated areas where employees can tailor their work environment to their needs is vital.
In response to the hybrid work model that has emerged post-pandemic, LinkedIn has taken steps to revamp its San Francisco office. The company halved the number of workstations in open areas and introduced 75 different types of work settings, including zones specifically designed for quiet focus.
For organisations keen on supporting their employees’ mental well-being, there are practical measures to consider. Implementing different work zones, incorporating acoustic treatments, and installing sound-masking technologies can significantly reduce auditory and visual distractions. Although these enhancements may entail higher initial costs compared to conventional open-plan designs, the long-term benefits—improved productivity, enhanced employee health, and better retention rates—are well worth the investment.
Offering employees greater choice regarding their exposure to noise and interruptions is not merely a perk; it is an essential component of effective workplace design.
Why it Matters
As businesses continue to navigate the evolving landscape of work, understanding the implications of office design on employee performance is paramount. The evidence is clear: prioritising environments that promote focus and minimise distractions is no longer optional but a necessity. By rethinking office layouts, organisations can unlock heightened productivity and well-being, ultimately fostering a more engaged workforce capable of thriving in today’s demanding work climate.
