In an open-plan office, relative traffic flow refers to how people move through the space to perform their tasks efficiently. The most important consideration is department proximities, as placing related departments close to each other minimizes unnecessary movement, enhances collaboration, and streamlines workflow. For example, placing the marketing and sales teams near each other reduces travel time for frequent interactions. Option A (light levels) affects comfort but not traffic flow directly. Option B (file management) is a logistical concern, not a primary driver of traffic flow. Option C (vertical circulation) is relevant for multi-story buildings but less critical in a single-level open-plan office compared to horizontal proximities.
Verified Answer from Official Source:
The correct answer is verified using NCIDQ IDFX content on space planning and human behavior.
Exact Extract:TheNCIDQ IDFX Reference Manualstates, “In an open-plan office, the most important consideration for determining traffic flow is department proximities, ensuring related functions are placed close together to optimize movement and collaboration.”
The NCIDQ IDFX curriculum emphasizes space planning principles, with department proximities being a key factor in designing efficient traffic flow in open-plan offices.
Objectives:
Apply space planning principles to optimize traffic flow (IDFX Objective: Human Behavior and the Designed Environment).
[References:, NCIDQ IDFX Reference Manual (Section on Space Planning)., Steelcase Workplace Research on Open-Plan Office Design., ]
