A preliminary study of cognitive failures in open plan offices

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to describe the application of a new method using instruments with increased ability to objectively assess and quantify the performance impacts on office workers in built environment settings.Design/methodology/approach – A Distractibility Index (DI) was calculated for sample employees, who then used a computer‐based instrument in two settings to evaluate cognitive impairmentFindings – There was measured cognitive impairment in higher distracting work environments. There is potential to use DI to predict performance detriments and aid better workplace design/management.Research limitations/implications – The study employed only a small sample size. The level of noise and other distractions in the settings studied need to be measured objectively. There is a need to differentiate between various sources of distraction in terms of their impact on cognitive impairment.Practical implications – The findings of this paper can help to improve workplace performance, with less...

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