Office design became more utilitarian and functional - even dull, while computers transformed the way people worked. Improvements in connectivity and the start of the world-wide-web meant that computers became essential for many employees. In 1998, Google was born.

1990s - The World-Wide Web

At first, office layouts were influenced by the production or factory line. Rows of desks fitted tightly together, but managers and executives had private offices with windows so they could supervise workers. In the 1950s, the workplace design style became less rigid. The emphasis was placed on meeting the needs of the workforce with a more fluid design. It resulted in a more social environment where collaboration between teams increased.

The 1950s workplace - the open-plan office

This decade saw the office layout moving towards productivity and profitability. Cubicles were cheap, effective and increased focus. Corporate culture became a priority. Workers started to dress in power suits, and employees began talking about a work-life balance. The computer started to gain popularity in the workplace.

1980s - The cubicle farm

The 2000s saw a time of evolution and revolution. Technology and high-speed connectivity became common. The smartphone was brought to mass market. Open-floor office plans started to rise. In addition, co-working spaces became more popular, allowing employees to work in alternative places, such as in coffee shops or remotely from home. Tech startups introduced casual clothes in the office, pressing the idea that people's work and feelings are more important.

2000s - Office technology

As technology advanced, employees began to demand flexibility in how, when and where they worked. A huge shift occurred in office design. Bright and vibrant offices evolved with mixed spaces to work. Technology became woven into the work, from video conferencing equipment to interactive screens to support the workplace experience.

2010s - Technology evolution

Office space was designed to focus on enabling individual workers to work creatively and more autonomously. Users health and comfort were more prominent. Computers were introduced into the workplace. Women began to gain more equality in the workforce through the Equal Pay Act, but women still did more menial office jobs and left the work once married to stay home full-time.

The 1970s - Equal Pay Act

The Action Office emerged in the 1960s. It included more freedom of movement, greater privacy, and personalised space. With time, employees each had a high, three-sided vertical division to define their space. Office tech started to change and included manual word processors, the first computer mouse, RAM chip and handheld calculators.In the US, the introduction of the 1964 Civil Rights Act caused a boom in jobs available to women.

The 1960s - office technology

Understand the evolution of workplaces and how they have shaped the work environments of today, with a look at what the future of the office will be.