There are still power dynamics in an open-plan-for-everyone arrangement. The CEO may sit in open view, but: 1. He can leave any time he wants for a cafe, a co

There are still power dynamics in an open-plan-for-everyone arrangement. The CEO may sit in open view, but: 1. He can leave any time he wants for a cafe, a conference room, or even take a drive and go home for the day. Open plan isn't horrible for people who can escape it any time they wish. It's the peons who are expected to be there 8 hours per day-- the ones that people will say shit about if they spend an hour or two (no matter how productive) away from the desk-- who are going to get sick. 2. He can do whatever the fuck he wants. If he wants to spend the whole day playing video games, he can. He has nothing to fear from other people seeing his daily activities. If he has stinky farts, the rest of the office will start eating beans and cheese to match the stink of his flatus.