Apparently so, according to those who work there. Most people, when asked whether they need privacy to do their jobs, will say yes. If you ask them whether they have enough privacy, many of them will say no. In fact, a major study pointed to the fact that only about 10 percent of Americans who now occupy an office (defined by four walls and a door) said they had as much privacy as they need.

In contrast, workers are also looking for (and sometimes even demanding) workplaces that allow for broader communication and interaction between staff. They require high-tech workplaces that support their tasks effectively and, as if this were not enough for a business owner to think about, today’s worker also expects to work within an office environment that is both inviting and stimulating.

Together, this wish list may seem like a substantial burden to business owners or managers trying to do the right thing for their people. Instead, this can be an opportunity to create a culture where a worker not only perceives his or her wish list fulfilled, but where greater productivity is the boss’s reward for paying attention. Truly, a well-planned and worker-oriented office results in such enhanced productivity that any physical alterations designed to better support the worker soon amount to a net return on investment.

"workers...require high-tech workplaces that support their tasks effectively and...(expect) to work within an environment that is both inviting and stimulating."