People still seem to assume that big businesses don’t listen to the little guy. That’s changing with the advent of social media. Huge cubicle manufacturing and design firms like Herman Miller have teams working hard to scour the internet for the latest industry news to share with their loyal blog readers. This level of online involvement gives HM the opportunity to discover all kinds of attitudes that folks have developed regarding the company’s brand and products. This week, the topic generating much discussion is a satirical post on McSweenys.net.
Ms. Jennifer DiOrio took a swipe at Herman Miller’s iconic Action Office cubicle system in a section on the McSweeny website called “Open Letters to People or Entities Who Are Unlikely to Respond”. DiOrio’s sarcasm-laced virtual epistle (which incorrectly named Mr. Miller as the inventor of the cubicle) prompted a reply post on the Discover blog site. “Assistant to the Assistant” Randall Braaksma took the time to dole out a measured and good humored response.
It’s a great chance to jump into the conversation about how workplace culture can impact whether cubicles are seen as a boon or a burden. Don’t forget to leave your comments here too!
Tags: cubicles
I can’t think of a better company who would respond to a letter like that then HM. As a former Grand Rapids insider exiled to SOCAL, I was fortunate enough to have worked at the Design Yard early in my career. They are keenly aware of the trials and tribulations of the cubicle and were quick to poke fun at themselves even back then. This even went so far as to have Dilbert creator, Scott Adams, speak to the company as a guest lecturer.
As an industrial designer for the better part of two decades, my career has ventured in and out of contact furniture a few times. It still boggles my mind the sort of legs (PLC) Action Office and other products like it have enjoyed through the decades(!). Even so, I can’t think of another company that has tried so hard to rethink, redesign or reinvent office landscapes through innovation and design as Herman Miller.
Thanks for your input, Steven. The cubicle has had quite a run - and with the constant design innovations by HM and other leading manufacturers there’s no end in sight. Yes, companies are looking for a more diverse mix of private, open, and collaborative spaces, but the cubicle in all its variations has definitely earned its place in the modern office.
Daisy