Are there any benefits to cubicles?

Question

Where I work there are discussions and planning starting for some spaces to change from cubicles to "something modern" for the work space.But is there a benefit to having cubicles that an open workspaces loses out on?Has anyone changed from a cubicle space to something else and there were regrets?Any suggestions on updating office floor/work space?

detaro · Accepted Answer

I can't think of many things an open workspace doesn't make worse compared to a cubicle farm. More distractions, even less noise isolation, less "privacy", ...EDIT: ok, more natural light, that is a plus of many open spaces

evanwolf · Answer

The principle advantages of cubicles:Over offices...- Less real estate per worker. In theory you get more return on your workspace lease/rent/mortgage expenses with cubicles than offices or WFH.- Ambient signal (vs noise). You learn more about what else others in your area are doing through audio/visual leaks into your space. Easier to become known to neighbors.- Togetherness (vs isolation). You're with others AND have your own space.- Flexibility. Cubicles used to be fast/cheap/easy to reconfigure and rearrange. Less so now.Over shared spaces...- Lockable elements. You can secure work-in-progress and tools and confidential materials in drawers, cabinets, and cupboards.- Visual privacy. You don't have others looking over your shoulder as much, even incidentally.- Visual isolation. You don't have others intruding on your peripheral vision.Personally, I prefer an office for headsdown concentration but cafe style workspaces are cool sometimes too for the interactions. And I've grown very used to working from home but miss the watercooler effects of a workplace.

5bolts · Answer

when i worked at the Capital One campus i thought they had it figured out. Lots of different environments, no assigned desks.
Some offices you could use for the day, some long conf tables.. some cafe style booths, rooms with projectors, areas with couches and coffee tables, heck even had a tree house you could book meetings in.
Personally i'd like the options. sometimes im heads down on a solo task other times i need 3-5 other people around.

allears · Answer

Depends on your work style. If you work well in a noisy, sociable space with little or no privacy, you might like an open office. On the other hand, if your job requires careful concentration and a long attention span with little distraction, an open office might suck.