We have an open office (no cubical walls) that is intended to increase productivity.
However I find that the increase in distractions, both sound and visual negates this due to the difficulty in concentrating and focusing on tasks.
How can I overcome those distractions but still keep in touch with colleagues in a (fairly) open manner?
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I have a similar problem, and invested in a set of noise-cancelling headphones. Because we're in an open environment, it's easy to still see people coming toward my workstation, and am able to make eye contact to let them know that I'm still attentive and not shutting myself out. I've also made comments to my coworkers like, "Wow, I am really distracted today...I'm gonna put on headphones so I can focus. just wave really big if you need me..." to cue them in. Best investment I've made for work. |
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Unfortunately, I've never had an issue focusing on visual things...much to the chagrin of my friends when we're in a bar or restaurant with monitors :) I have a programmer friend who had a more traditional cubicle with dual monitors, but was developing a new system and found himself CONSTANTLY referring to ten or so pages of requirements and flowcharts in a binder. He bought himself one of those tri-fold school science-project displays, cut holes for his monitors, and tapes up all the project documentation he needed on the same visual plane of his monitors. An added side benefit of that is that he instant has a 30" or so "wall" in his visual field. I contracted in a truly open-concept office for about ten days...it was computers on antique library tables in an old warehouse loft..., and I found it VERY distracting when I wasn't knees deep in my project. I discussed it with my boss, and he was happy to let me use a conference room and a laptop. Keep in mind that unless your employer is a complete jackass, they're paying for your expertise to be delivered in an efficient manner. Explaining that you can't be as effective in the environment usually leads to compromises and accommodations. It's worth asking. |
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Is it possible to switch desks so that you are in one of the dark corners? So facing a wall, or just off the normal walking ways around the office? Just thinking of thinks you could be looking at that don't change much. I'd go with a couple of big pot plants either side of your monitor... |
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I can relate to the problem and I've also invested a few hundred dollars on the best noise cancelling headphones I could find. What about the visual stimuli? Any suggestions? Raising a wall is not an option and going away from my cube is frowned upon. |
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