Alternatives to Open Office Layouts

3 min read
Dec 7, 2024

For decades, open offices were heralded as the solution to stifling cubicles, promising increased collaboration, transparency, and cost-efficiency. But the tides have turned. Recent studies, such as one from Harvard Business Review, reveal a 70% drop in face-to-face interaction in open offices, with employees retreating into digital communication and feeling more exposed and distracted than ever.

The question facing businesses today is: What’s next? The modern workplace is evolving, with a growing emphasis on privacy, flexibility, and fostering productivity. Below are three leading alternatives to the open office layout that balance employee comfort with operational efficiency.

Table of Contents 

  1. Activity-based working (ABW)
  2. Video conferencing
  3. A hybrid approach

 

1. Activity Based Working (ABW)

What is ABW?
Activity-Based Working (ABW) shifts away from assigned desks, offering employees different zones tailored to specific tasks. In an ABW office, spaces are designed for collaboration, focused work, private conversations, or relaxation, creating a dynamic environment. This activity-based working office design adapts to diverse work needs, making it a leading office cubicle alternative. Offices that adopt ABW see a 15-25% boost in employee productivity, according to a report by JLL.

Why ABW works

  • Flexibility: Employees choose where to work based on their current task, improving productivity and satisfaction.
  • Increased collaboration: Teams can gather in purpose-built spaces for brainstorming sessions or presentations.
  • Private spaces: Quiet zones or soundproof booths provide respite for those tackling complex projects.

Challenges of ABW

While the ABW workplace is highly adaptable, some workers may resist moving between spaces, preferring a fixed desk. Additionally, designing and maintaining an activity-based working office design can be costly, particularly for smaller businesses.

2. Video conferencing

As remote work becomes a staple, video conferencing is emerging as a vital element of alternative office space solutions. Remote teams using video conferencing report a 25% increase in collaboration efficiency, as per Forbes. Platforms like Digital Samba enable seamless collaboration, whether employees are in private offices, co-working spaces, or home offices.

Benefits of video conferencing

  • Preserves privacy: Employees can work from quiet, comfortable spaces while staying connected.
  • Advanced collaboration tools: Features like HD video, virtual whiteboards, and screen sharing ensure productive meetings.
  • Asynchronous options: Pre-recorded webinars and evergreen content allow teams to catch up on their schedules.

Why it’s essential

Video conferencing technology empowers businesses to support hybrid and remote teams, bridging the gap between in-office and remote workers. It also works seamlessly with open air office environments, offering a virtual escape for private discussions or focus work.

Example:
Digital Samba’s HD video conferencing allows teams to collaborate effectively, even when spread across the globe. Employees can engage in real-time or catch up later, making it a perfect fit for ABW and hybrid setups.

3. A hybrid approach

The hybrid model blends the best aspects of ABW and video conferencing with flexible work arrangements. It’s an approach that prioritises balance, offering a mix of in-office collaboration spaces and remote work options.

Benefits of hybrid approach

  • Enhanced flexibility: Employees can choose between working in shared spaces, quiet zones, or remotely.
  • Boosted satisfaction: A hybrid setup often leads to happier employees who value the autonomy to work in ways that suit them best.
  • Cost-efficiency: By allowing more work-from-home days, businesses can reduce the need for expansive office spaces.

Real-world application

Many organisations are investing in alternative office spaces that combine ABW office zones with remote work infrastructure. Some are even embracing office space alternatives like co-working hubs or hot desks to reduce costs. Companies with hybrid work models report a 73% increase in employee satisfaction, according to a Gallup study.

Looking ahead

The demise of the traditional open office signals a shift towards smarter, more adaptable workspaces. Whether through the flexibility of ABW, the connectivity of video conferencing, or the freedom of hybrid setups, businesses are finding ways to redefine productivity in the modern workplace.

As organisations move away from cookie-cutter office layouts, embracing open workplace concepts and technology-driven solutions will be crucial. Tools like Digital Samba can play a pivotal role in these transformations, enabling seamless communication and collaboration, regardless of location.

Take the next step

Ready to transform your workspace? Whether you’re designing an ABW office, exploring office cubicle alternatives, or integrating video conferencing into your operations, our experts are here to help.

Contact our sales team today to discover how we can support your transition to a more flexible, productive, and modern workplace.

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