Open application in specific workspace

Note: This answer was written for systems running the Compiz window manager (default in Ubuntu 7.04 to 17.04). For versions of Ubuntu using Gnome Shell see this answer.

1. Install compizconfig-settings-manager:

   sudo apt install compizconfig-settings-manager
   

2. Go to Window Management -> Place Windows -> Fixed Window Placement

3. Under Windows with fixed viewport click on new

   • class=NameOfYourProgram (Here the spelling is important. Better use the green plus sign and "Grab" this parameter in the resulting window)
   • Position : {1,1}top left; {1,2}bottom left, ...
   • example opens Gnome-terminal in bottom right workspace :

More information on wiki.compiz.org

Install the Gnome extension "Auto Move Windows".

1. The package should come with Ubuntu, otherwise sudo apt-get install gnome-tweak-tool
2. Open Tweaks
3. Go to Extensions
4. Configure and Activate Auto Move Windows

Devilspie does a wonderful job of controlling how your windows launch, no matter what.