Survey: One in Four On-site Employees Would Rather Do Their Taxes Than Work in A Bad Workspace

New Harris Poll/National Business Furniture research underscores importance of workspace design to engagement and attendance

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A photorealistic studio still life featuring a calculator, pen, notepad, and laptop arranged on a clean, white background, conveying the concept of a well-designed workspace and its impact on employee experience.A meticulously arranged still life of essential office tools underscores the importance of workspace design for employee productivity and satisfaction.West Allis Today

A new survey by The Harris Poll on behalf of National Business Furniture (NBF) found that 76% of on-site employees say they would rather do something unpleasant than work in a poorly designed workspace, including 24% who would rather do their taxes. The survey also revealed that nearly three-quarters (73%) of on-site employees feel frustrated with their current workspace, with over half (57%) struggling to concentrate or focus on tasks at work at least sometimes.

Why it matters

The survey results highlight the significant impact that workspace design can have on employee productivity, morale, and retention. Employers across sectors and business sizes need to prioritize improving office environments to create more engaging and supportive workspaces for their on-site staff.

The details

The survey found that more than half of workers ages 55+ and nearly 80% of employees ages 18-54 reported frustrations with their current workspace. These issues are taking a measurable toll, with over half (52%) of on-site employees experiencing frustration that meeting spaces don't meet their needs at least sometimes. However, the survey also found that 83% of on-site employees who experience workspace frustrations say they'd feel more valued by their employer if these issues were addressed, and nearly two in five (39%) expressed this sentiment strongly.

  • The survey was conducted online within the United States by The Harris Poll on behalf of National Business Furniture from February 19 - 23, 2026.

The players

Yonca Heyse

President of National Business Furniture.

The Harris Poll

A market research firm that conducted the survey on behalf of National Business Furniture.

National Business Furniture

A leading provider of office furniture and accessories for businesses.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Employees are telling us loud and clear: the quality of their office matters. When people can't focus, feel physically uncomfortable, or lack space that supports the way they work, it affects everything, from their productivity to whether they feel valued.”

— Yonca Heyse, President of National Business Furniture

“Frustration with the physical workspace crosses generations and has a tangible daily impact. It's time employers across sectors and business sizes gave improvements strong consideration.”

— Yonca Heyse, President of National Business Furniture

What’s next

The full report, including data on the most frustrating workspace challenges and the improvements employees would like prioritized, is available for download at NBF.com/fix-my-office.

The takeaway

This survey highlights the critical importance of workspace design and quality for employee productivity, morale, and retention. Employers who invest in creating more engaging and supportive office environments can expect to see significant benefits in terms of improved employee experience and business outcomes.