Many companies today utilize cubicles in their offices. A cubicle, often called a cube, is a three-walled structure that usually measures about ninety-six square feet. Usually there is a desk along two walls that has drawers and filing cabinets built in. Cubes are typically constructed of a metal skeleton and a heavy-duty fabric covering. Although most companies see lower cost and space saving cube farms as an effective workplace environment, the negative aspects of cubes far outweigh the positive aspects.
             Companies find cubes to be more economic than offices for many reasons. Cubes do not require the furnishings or up-keep that offices do. A worker in a cube doesn't have room for visitor seating, so there is no need to buy extra chairs. Cubes also are not painted, therefore no re-painting, nor do they require much repair. The small size of cubes allow for more space to be utilized for a larger number of personnel. Unfortunately, this lack of space can make an employee feel cramped. Also, because cubes are windowless, they can be very depressing, like working in a rat maze. Cubes can be rearranged easily, allowing for any changes in personnel to be handled quickly. This can make employees feel that they are not highly valued and can be easily replaced. Cubes don't have doors, so nothing is confidential and impromptu private meetings are nearly impossible. Also, because of the lack of a door, people feel that anything on someone's desk is for the taking, such as paperclips, change, or even the use of the phone.
             When an employee works out of a cube, there are many privacy issues that can arise. Employers like the fact that, because everyone can see and hear everything, workers are less likely to use the computer, Internet, and phone for personal tasks. However, employees can feel "spied on" and that they are not trusted because of this lack of privacy. There are times when an employee has to do some pe...