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One of the most recent trends to make headway in the call center furniture industry is the idea of an "open office," and by this, we mean taking down all the walls of separation and creating a more interactive, socializing environment.

For call centers, the most efficient way to cut down costs of overall expenditure is by choosing the right space saving furniture, which can inevitably cut down bills like electricity and heat along with real estate spending (i.e. taxes).

Businesses can help revive our economy with their increased productivity and revenue, as well as eliminate the devastating unemployment rates from simply, and properly, redesigning their office. In an effort to convince those to design or redesign their offices, here are some of the key elements of the "open office"…

Image via Forbes

Less walls, more space

Thanks to Wi-Fi, laptops and the cloud, call centers no longer have to worry about creating extra space for wires and sever that take up unnecessary space. There are options such as cluster pods – also known as circular core stations or pods – which maximize floor space and can allow for more privacy, with adjustable paneling and surface area for employees.

With an open office environment, employees can also feel more comfortable to utilize the sit-to-stand cubicle, which gives them the option to either stand or sit while working in order to increase physical activity that lacks in such a setting. These types of work stations also make it easier for call centers to move furniture around the office or make additions, essentially creating a setting that has room to grow.

Increased Productivity Levels

"Open office design is becoming more and more widespread because of the productivity gains from collaborative spaces," said Sara Herman, director of interior design at SVPA Architects in West Des Moines. "It's happening first, because work in general has become more of a collaborative process, and second, because the younger generation is more accustomed to being able to work in a more collaborative way.”

Although it has been said that this type of setting can reduce productivity, if the correct cubicle designs are chosen, this type of environment can allow for both privacy and more opportunities to socialize with other agents.

More natural light reduces electricity bills

According to LEED, a green building rating system, an upfront investment of 2 percent in green building design results in lifecycle savings of 20 percent of the total construction costs, which is more than 10 times the initial investment. By eliminating walls and creating more open space, call centers can design their offices to use as much natural light as possible instead of purchasing light fixtures for every single closed space. If call centers believe that evidence in psychology that supports the positive effects sunlight has on people’s mood, then this type of setting can even help make their employees happier. And who doesn’t want happy employees?

For more information about LEED certification, click here.