I used to run a consultancy that developed software and managed IT. We benefitted greatly from having private offices (1-2 people) combined with common areas fo

I used to run a consultancy that developed software and managed IT. We benefitted greatly from having private offices (1-2 people) combined with common areas for impromptu discussions. Our signal for do-not-disturb was a closed door. I have since visited many trendy open floor plan offices and I think they are ridiculous. There is no way to focus and create value. If an organization cannot afford private offices, it is probably not creating much value. If it can afford private offices and chooses to put everyone within earshot of each other, it is leaving productivity improvement on the table.