Workers in the creative industries are now working on open tables in close proximity to their fellow workers.  Companies have eliminated private offices and partitions.  Entering some offices today is like going into a library: .  people work away on their computer, alone and silent.  Other open office environments feel like the “Daily News” with phones ringing and the din of hustle and bustle.   In these environments, workers resort to earphones to create an environment in which they can focus.  In this case, the collaborative office can produce a non-collaborative environment with ear buds replacing walls.  It is important to provide balance.  Offices need to provide private areas for phone calls, meetings, and employees who focus better with privacy.  To read more about the importance of focus and balance in the workplace, see Gensler’s article below.

Focus_in_the_Workplace_10_01_2012.pdf.