Read a text on office design. Then choose which of the statements below are true or false. 1 Open-plan offices are generally good for business. true / false 2 Open-plan offices are cheaper. true / false 3 People communicate better in closed offices. true

Exercise 6 Read a text on office design. Then choose which of the statements below are
true or false.
Open-plan vs. closed offices
Which are better?
For most companies, the design of the office space is very important. The office space
should help employees to work more efficiently, concentrate on their work and work better in
a team. There are two common designs – closed offices and open offices.
Open offices are good for companies for a number of reasons. Firstly, they cost less
because they use less space and use less electricity to heat or cool. In addition, businesses can
save on equipment because people are sharing resources such as printers and photocopiers.
Since there are no walls or barriers between desks, staff can learn from each other and interact
more efficiently. For example, when you work in an open office you can get feedback on your
work instantly and you can ask questions without needing to knock on doors. Increased
collaboration between employees can also result in business innovation.
On the other hand, many employees prefer closed offices, mainly because there is less
noise and it's easier to concentrate. With a busy open-plan office, the high level of noise can
make it difficult for employees to focus on their work. Another advantage for business is
lower absenteeism. When people work in an open environment, there is a greater risk of
catching a disease when somebody is ill. And when employees are absent, the company is less
productive.
1 Open-plan offices are generally good for business.
true / false
2 Open-plan offices are cheaper.
true / false
3 People communicate better in closed offices.
true / false
4 Closed offices make businesses more innovative.
true / false
5 It's easier to concentrate on your work in a closed office.
true / false
6 Employees who work in closed offices are absent more often.
true / false