This is often repeated on HN threads as a plausible explanation for open plans, always without evidence. But it makes very little sense as a theory. Companies do not have a financial inventive to consciously cripple their very highly paid, very difficult to hire developers' productivity. People are their number one expense and asset, vastly moreso than office space. Far from cutting corners, many open plan companies also spend lavishly on amenities to keep engineers happy.
A more plausible explanation is companies do open plan because they believe it will help foster collaboration, culture and team productivity. You may disagree but the "beancounter" theory makes no sense.
A more plausible explanation is companies do open plan because they believe it will help foster collaboration, culture and team productivity. You may disagree but the "beancounter" theory makes no sense.