Insight / News
Sound distraction is a huge issue in offices with over half of workers being interrupted by noise distractions, more than five times a working day in the office – according to a survey conducted by The Remark Group.
Noise distraction could be a bigger issue than you realise. When preparing for the fluctuating economic environment, it is important to realise that maintaining productivity is very important to make sure you are getting the best value from your business.
Putting careful thought into the design and layout of your space will help to regulate the amount of noise that gets carried through. For example, avoid putting collaborative spaces near private offices or quiet zones. In theory, an area of open-plan desks may appear to be a quiet space, but the sound of everyday chatter and phones ringing is more distracting than you think, therefore incorporating acoustic products in these areas is also a good consideration to make.
An under-rated sound absorber, carpet helps reduce the travel of sound waves. Selecting the right flooring type helps minimise the sound of footsteps and the occasional pen dropping on the floor. As an open office space is usually just that – open; it means that the sound has to travel further before it can bounce off any walls and so the floor is in most cases, the closest surface the sound wave has to bounce off. Therefore, putting a noise absorber on the floor makes it a more likely scenario that it will reduce unnecessary noise.
Having a dedicated quiet space means that if there is any noise such as conversations between desks or phone calls being taken, it means there is a bit of freedom for your staff, to move and decide where they will work the most productively to complete the relevant tasks.
Acoustic products are made from felt and other products which are good sound absorbers. The range of acoustic products has greatly improved in recent years, there’s now even a range of acoustic ceiling tiles. These make an appearance in our recommended six of our top acoustic products, so you can read more about them here.
This may seem like a given, but not only are soundproof windows a sustainable choice, but they also help minimise the sound of passing traffic, the chatter of passers-by and the occasional storm!
Does your office space currently suffer from noise distraction? This damages the productivity and wellbeing of staff, subsequently making the business suffer. Make a change today, and get in touch today to change your workspace for the better, with an office equipped for the future – no matter what the climate. Get in touch today – 0161 246 2368, or fill out an enquiry form below.