The use of Music At Work has been long debated and scientifically researched subject, and often the researchers have come up with completely different conclusions. On one hand, a study published in 2010 in “Applied Cognitive Psychology” claimed that music is a distracting factor at work. On the other, scientists like Dr. Theresa Lesiuk have found in their studies that music has very positive effects on concentration and productivity at work. With such disparate scientific views, the influence of music on a working environment is still open to debate.
Is the positive view winning?
Taking into account the scientific views that have a positive approach towards the influence of music on the Work Environment, Los Angeles Startup ‘Focus@Will’ has developed a system of music channels that are specifically tailored to the needs of certain work groups. Using the advanced technology that has gone as far as replacing human musicians with AI, the idea is to have ‘streamlined music’ that improves, the mood, concentration and productivity of work groups. The choice the company offers ranges from "electro Bach" to "focus spa".
According to the company, their system that is available online and through their designated app “uses the brain-shaping features of sound to keep your mind from avoiding two undesirable states: "distraction and habituation.” The company even has a scientific advisory board that is supposed to aid their work and further research.
The debate will continue
While Focus@Will is trying to pave its way to success, the debate about the use of music at work is certain to continue. The supporters of the concept often point out to the example of surgeons in operating rooms and that they work more effectively when they play music they like.
On the other hand, researchers like neuroscientist Daniel Levitin insist that music is a distracting factor at work and that if workers need to listen to music, it should be when they take their regular breaks.
Many employers seem to insist on this approach not wanting to take any risks with music and even prohibit the use of personal music systems at work.
One of the things that most researchers agree on though is that performance can certainly depend on the quality and type of music someone is listening to while they work. That particularly concerns music that includes distracting factors like clicks and pops or a very extreme tempo. So, if you decide to accept the approach that favors listening to music at work, try to avoid any such music on one of the various lists of albums to look for in the ongoing year.
