the cube

I’ve always been interested in how people think, and I sometimes daydream about having dinner with interesting characters. What do they feel was their greatest achievement? How did their families change them? Who had they loved? Though I have many possibilities, my first guest would be the designer of the infamous gray corporate cube.

If you have escaped the talons of corporate America, bravo. If you live 60+ hours a week in a gray cube, then you know that of which I speak. You arrive at work refreshed, enter the building, turn into your aisle and immediately join the drones in the “gray zone.” Gray is the standard – and dull is the workforce. Inspiration leaves in a flood. What the hell was that designer thinking?

People need a rich environment for inspiration and creativity. High-level executives do not hold strategic sessions in cafeterias in Detroit. They hold them in Aspen or Santa Fe. Executives clearly recognize their creative thinking is inspired by environment. They just don’t believe in the cost of inspiring their workforce.

I say revolt. Choose a Friday, stack ‘em up in the parking lot and burn baby, burn. On Monday, put your laptop on an apple crate, decorate your imaginary 6 x 6 foot space with your goldfish and make it your own. Nod at your co-conspirators. Remember why the hell you were hired in the first place and then write the best piece you have ever written.

©2007