Location Type Choice for Face-to-Face Interactions in Business Centers

Abstract

Business centers offer flexible shared workspaces and facilities to multiple organizations, which provide more freedom in where to interact with others. However, knowledge on where different types of organizational interactions take place in business centers and how this behavior is influenced is still lacking. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the location choice for different types of face-to-face interactions. Data, collected by means of an experience sampling method (ESM), were analyzed using a mixed multinomial logit (MMNL) model. Results showed that interorganizational interactions take place less frequently at workspaces or formal meeting spaces and more frequently at shared spaces such as the coffee corner or canteen. These interactions are also more likely to be influenced by the physical work environment, as these interactions were found to be mainly coincidental. Results of this study could help office designers with regard to stimulating face-to-face interactions among organizations.