But research has found that open offices decrease employee productivity, creativity, satisfaction, and even physical health.

The researchers noted that use of these practices was associated with better financial results but had little effect on employee productivity or turnover.

Variations in employee productivity are expected and allowed.

Corporations generally expect to control on-site internet access: many use firewalls to reduce the risk of malware, and some enforce restrictions aimed at employee productivity.

Additional economic payback may come in the form of employee productivity gains incurred as a result of working in a healthier environment.