My biggest gripes with open-plan offices (aside from the usual productivity cost): - Listening to coworkers' lengthy private calls. - You can't talk in confid

My biggest gripes with open-plan offices (aside from the usual productivity cost): - Listening to coworkers' lengthy private calls. - You can't talk in confidence with any of your coworkers, so the only talks you have, the only things you say, are what you are OK with everyone nearby hearing. It hurts possible relationships/bonding (probably a positive for management), but it also hurts professional growth. - When we ask questions, we learn from each other and solve problems; we get things done. However, many are not that cool with asking what they think might be a stupid question (or one that reveals a lack of knowledge). With several people nearby listening in? Forget it!