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Cubicle Quote by Steve Prentice

“The irony here is that although the cubicle grid structure of the typical office allows many people to work closely together, it has done little to improve actual human-to-human contact skills. People feel more comfortable hiding behind email than they do talking issues through, face to face, in a…” quote by Steve Prentice
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““The irony here is that although the cubicle grid structure of the typical office allows many people to work closely together, it has done little to improve actual human-to-human contact skills. People feel more comfortable hiding behind email than they do talking issues through, face to face, in a well-structured, dynamic discussion.””

Steve Prentice

About This Quote

Source Speech: Business Conference on Workplace Design, 2015

Office cubicles promote proximity but hinder genuine interpersonal communication, leading workers to favor email over face‑to‑face dialogue.

In simple terms: Cubicles keep people near but stop real conversation.

Key Takeaway

Encourage direct, structured discussions.

Themes

communication workplace culture technology human interaction

Mood

reflective concerned

Type

observational analytical

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • conflict resolution
  • collaboration workshops
  • leadership training

Key Concepts

social dynamics remote work organizational behavior

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we redesign spaces to foster real dialogue?
  • What habits replace email with personal conversation?
A Different Perspective

Email can be efficient but may erode trust and empathy.

3.3 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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