Different work environments work better for different people. I’ve worked in a few different types of environments:
- Own office closed off from everyone else (with a code on the door for entry)
- Office shared with just the team I worked with & it was open plan (we had no cubicles), I’ve worked in two of these
- Open plan office with between 20-30 staff not all on my team
I personally preferred the second setup. I don’t like being on my own all of the time and I found that when it was just our team we could collaborate easier. We could also have mini break outs and all team had a bit of a chat over tea which helped us get to know each other and, in turn, communicate better with each other.
Having said that, sometimes when I was trying to puzzle out a really tough problem working from home on my own was great. I guess, depending on the situation, I much prefer the first two setups to the third.
What is your office layout like? Have you worked in a few different types? Is there one you prefer?