This is an either-or way of looking at it. There are other options. Consider Valve; the most wildly profitable game company that exists: Their strategy is to al

This is an either-or way of looking at it. There are other options. Consider Valve; the most wildly profitable game company that exists: Their strategy is to allow people to move their desks around however they wish, anytime they want. Want to have some time along? Move your desk away from the herd and grind away. Need to handle a sudden need that requires lots of team interactivity? Arrange your desks in a small circle for maximum interaction. The problem with companies in general is that they are run by management who have been trained that fixed structure is the most effective way to get things done. Structures are good; but they don't have to be fixed. There are pluses and minuses to every single methodology. Blend.