抄録
This study is part of a complex research on current Japanese office environments. Based on qualitative and quantitative data from group interviews and questionnaires, 'free-layout' and seating positions in 'isle-type' layout, as well as levels of workspace enclosures were defined and then cross-tabulated by the following psychophysical environmental characteristics: visual- and acoustical privacy (noise issues) and ease of communication. Layout differences did not have strong effects on privacy and noise issues, but affected intersectional communication. Seating positions affected workers' visual and acoustical privacy, as well as communication. Enclosure levels had the strongest mediating effects on privacy and communication. Communication and visual privacy showed significant positive correlations with different facets of productivities. Noise and lack of privacy were pointed out as most serious issues.
