The Open Range Anthropologist blog reinforces the organic link between the built environment and group and individual behavior. Even when we’re not thinking about it, the spaces in which we work, learn, and interact have a profound impact on how well we can do any of those things.
Particularly handy is her link to this 2005 book excerpt by Thomas H. Davenport, which details what we know about effective office environments for knowledge workers.
The excerpt made me wonder how many arts organizations — who otherwise obsess about the form and function of their performance and exhibit spaces — apply even a fraction of that energy and expertise to their administrative offices. From the work areas I’ve visited and worked in over the years, I’d say ”not many.”
Take a look around your own office with a designer’s eye. Have you built an effective ”stage set” for the advancement of your work, and the support of the workers therein? If not, forgo the purchase of that office foosball machine, and spend a little attention and cash on improvements that matter.
