[ChuckMcM]

This is an interesting rant on open offices. The 'inexplicable' part is rationalized as a cost savings thing.

Open offices are different. They have been very common in Europe for years. I remember being astonished visiting offices in Switzerland back in the 90's with folks sitting at desks just out in the open. And while I found it abhorrent (I had an office back at HQ, with a window no less), these people did seem to get things done.

It is possible Tech companies in the US are "catching up" to the rest of the world with regard to this stuff. I thought quad cubes at Google were a bit much, (and being that close to three other people can be uncomfortable) but no one was arguing that Google was unproductive or 'bad.'

Headphones are great for shutting out the noise if you want that.

[pbreit]

Headphones are a lousy answer considering that many/most people would prefer not to work with them on or listen to music while working.

[slowmover]

For this very reason I made a pair of "stealth" earplugs. Take a standard "memory foam" type earplug, cut it down so the outer edge is flush with your ear hole, and color the outer surface of it black with a sharpie. I've worn them all day before without anyone noticing. They cut down the distant noise, but still let enough sound through to have a normal conversation with someone nearby.

And yes, I invented these shortly after my work area was converted to an open floor plan.

[zeckalpha]

Sometimes I listen to brown noise when I don't want to listen to music. You may prefer white or pink.

[cbaleanu]

Having worked both in Europe and in the US, I can only agree with this observation. Open space is indeed very popular and expected in Europe.

I think it has to do with culture. Socializing during office hours is encouraged as employees tend to be more productive if they are in a good mood.

Cubicles are universally perceived as bad and boring to be in, as you cannot socialize.