Living better in open office spaces
Ringing phones, conversations with colleagues... Communication in open spaces is not always easy. However, a few rules and regulations can make everyday life easier.
In the 1990s, open plan offices were introduced in many companies. In order to reduce costs, but also, and this was the most important argument at the time, to facilitate communication between teams. However, some employees complain about the noise and the lack of privacy. Here are a few tips on how to overcome these problems:
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Also try to set your ring tone as low as possible and put your mobile phone on vibrate. Do not hesitate to ask your colleagues to do likewise.
MAKE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE USE OF TELEPHONES
Easier said than done! But living in a community takes some effort. You should try to speak differently on the phone than in a face-to-face conversation: speak in a soft tone so as not to disturb your colleagues.Also try to set your ring tone as low as possible and put your mobile phone on vibrate. Do not hesitate to ask your colleagues to do likewise.
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INSTALL PARTITION WALLS
If your open-plan office is really noisy (especially the colleague sitting opposite to you), have partition walls installed. They somewhat reduce the communication and cosiness of your workspace, but they also relieve you of noise and give you more privacy.3
USE THE MEETING ROOMS
Do you have a specific phone call to make? A small meeting with 3 or 4 people? There's no need to share it with the whole world: use a meeting room! However, in order to ensure that meeting rooms are used in a way that is respectful to everyone, it is preferable to establish strict rules for booking.4
REMOVE NOISY MACHINES FROM THE OPEN AREA
If the layout of the room allows for it, it is preferable to place photocopiers and printers outside the open space, for example in the corridor. This will limit noise and reduce the risk of distraction.5