We were temporarily located in a similar type of open environment. The only advantage was the closeness in proximity of staff to each other for purposes of communicating on issues surrounding proposals and awards. Otherwise, there were numerous disadvantages:  Noise noise noise, difficulty in meeting with faculty or having phone conversations, difficulty in concentrating, lack of privacy, lack of space, and a host of other things. We were all so very grateful that the space was only temporary.

Sharon D. Smith, M.S., CRA
Research Development Specialist
MTSU Office of Research Services
(615) 898-5894 (Office)
(615) 898-5028 (Fax)

-----Original Message-----
From: Research Administration List [mailto:xxxxxx@lists.healthresearch.org] On Behalf Of Natasha Stark
Sent: Friday, January 17, 2014 11:02 AM
To: xxxxxx@lists.healthresearch.org
Subject: [RESADM-L] Central Office Floor Plan & Work Environment

Georgia State University is in the process of moving its central OSPA office into new office space with a new floor plan and office configuration.  Currently each of us has a private office with a door.  The new space that is being proposed would simulate the now infamous Google open environment where there will be 4 people to a cube/space and the entire area would be open with little to no privacy.

Does anyone currently work in this type of environment?  If so what are your experiences?  For those who do not work in this type of environment what would you perceive as being the pros and cons to being in this type of work arrangement?

Thanks in advance for your thoughts and opinions!

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======================================================================
 Instructions on how to use the RESADM-L Mailing List, including
 subscription information and a web-searchable archive, are available
 via our web site at http://www.healthresearch.org (click on the
 "LISTSERV" link in the upper right corner)

 A link directly to helpful tips:  http://tinyurl.com/resadm-l-help
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