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Do programmers have quiet working conditions

According to Spolsky, it's important for software workers -- among other knowledge workers -- to get "in the zone" to get productive work done. Being intently focused is great, but it's a difficult state to attain. After all, it takes the average employee about 15 minutes to start working at one's maximum productivity level.

The simplest distractions can lead to a severe lack of productivity. Overhearing conservations, taking phone calls, and being interrupted by coworkers can result in 15 to 30 minutes of wasted time. So, giving programmers quiet offices, rather than open cubicles, can lead to more production.