The complete interview for further reading:
What problems does a phone booth solve in an open-plan office?
A phone booth primarily solves three problems: noise, lack of privacy, and lack of concentration.
In an open-plan office, there are many disruptions from phone calls, video calls, or spontaneous conversations. Those on the phone often disturb other employees. At the same time, the person on the call doesn't want confidential information to be overheard throughout the office.
Especially with customer calls, HR topics, or internal decisions, discretion plays an important role. A good phone booth therefore creates a protected space for communication and simultaneously relieves the open office area.
What should companies look out for before purchasing?
Before purchasing a phone booth, companies should pay particular attention to these points:
- Acoustic effect
- Workmanship and stability
- Safety and certifications
- Ventilation and comfort
- Flexibility when relocating
Regarding acoustics, it is crucial whether the box as a whole has been tested. ISO 23351-1 is relevant here. It assesses the speech level reduction of the complete box and not just individual components.
Companies should first ask themselves: Should the phone booth primarily relieve the surrounding area, or is it about confidential conversations with the highest possible discretion?
Why is ISO 23351-1 important?
ISO 23351-1 helps to better classify the acoustic performance of a phone booth. Many providers advertise high values, but these do not always refer to the complete box.
The standard distinguishes between different performance classes. An A-classification stands for a very strong speech level reduction. Depending on the area of application, however, a good B-class may also be sufficient.
Important: Even a few decibels difference can be noticeable in practice. Therefore, one should not only compare the price but also carefully check the acoustic values.
When is a phone booth more sensible than a meeting room?
A phone booth is particularly useful when companies want to create additional retreats quickly and space-efficiently.
A classic meeting room requires more space, fixed walls, and usually significantly more planning effort. A phone booth can be integrated more quickly and relocated later if necessary.
A box for two people is particularly practical. It is suitable for:
- Phone calls
- Video calls
- Concentrated work
- Short meetings
- Confidential conversations
In larger offices, a combination of phone booth, work booth, and meeting booth can be useful.
What distinguishes inexpensive from high-quality phone booths?
Phone booths differ significantly in acoustics, construction, safety, ventilation, and material quality.
For inexpensive models, it is worth taking a closer look at certificates and workmanship. Not every acoustic specification indicates how well the box truly functions in the office.
Construction is also important. High-quality models are stable, durable, well-ventilated, and often modular. This makes it easier to replace individual elements or adapt them to new requirements.
What role do fire protection and safety play?
Fire protection and safety should always be checked, especially if the phone booth is used in existing office spaces.
Depending on the building, requirements for materials, fire alarms, or sprinkler systems may exist. Therefore, it should be clarified early on which regulations apply at the location.
Reputable providers can provide documents on materials, certifications, and technical adjustments.
How important is ventilation?
Ventilation is a central comfort factor. A phone booth is often used for longer phone calls, video calls, or concentrated work. If the air quickly becomes stuffy, the booth will be used less often.
Good ventilation ensures pleasant air quality without being annoyingly loud. Systems that can exchange more air at short notice if required are practical.
How do you know if a phone booth is worthwhile?
The benefits become apparent in everyday life. Employees can make calls more quietly, conduct confidential conversations, and work more concentrated.
A phone booth supports activity-based working. Employees choose the appropriate location depending on the task: open workspace, quiet phone booth, or larger meeting booth.
This can have a positive impact on:
- Concentration
- Satisfaction
- Productivity
- Room quality
- Utilization of office space
What mistake should be avoided when purchasing?
The biggest mistake is to choose a phone booth online based only on price and picture.
Acoustics, spatial perception, ventilation, seating comfort, and workmanship are difficult to assess online. Therefore, a box should be tested before purchasing.
Before making a decision, companies should clarify:
- How many people will use the box?
- What will it mainly be used for?
- How important is discretion?
- Where will it be placed?
- Does it need to be movable later?
- What regulations apply in the building?
- What is the total budget available?
An inexpensive box can become expensive if it is not used later or does not convince acoustically.
Conclusion
A phone booth is more than a telephone cabin. It creates peace, focus, and privacy in the open-plan office and helps to make open office spaces more usable.
A careful selection is important. Acoustics, quality, ventilation, safety, and flexibility should be checked before purchasing. Those who test the box and know their own requirements will make the better decision.
