We all want to be productive at work, but it often feels like an uphill battle against interruptions. A change to your workstation setup can help you increase productivity and power through your work.
How Can a Dual Monitor Speed Up Your Work?
Just like two heads, two monitors are better than one. A dual monitor setup means you don’t have to flick back and forth from one document to another like you would with one monitor. Instead, you can use one screen as your active monitor for typing or data entry, and the second monitor for gathering the information you need.
According to a New York Times report of a research survey, dual monitors can increase productivity by 20-30%. Being able to leave a source document open in front of you rather than switching back and forth between documents saves clicks and time. The average time to move and click your mouse is 1.5 seconds, then another 0.5 seconds for the document to open. If you multiply two seconds by the number of clicks made throughout the entire workday, it can add up to 2.5 hours per day.
The Right Monitor Setup
You can only be as productive as your setup. If you’re used to using only one monitor, it may take some time to find the dual monitor setup that’s right for you. Here are some tips to help with the setup.
The Importance of Posture
Whether you’re using one or two monitors, take a little time during your workday to check on your posture.
Your back should sit against the lower part of the chair back and your feet positioned either on the ground or a footstool. Your forearms should sit on the desk at a 90-degree angle. If you use a sit stand desk, your arms should be at the same angle.
Monitor Setup
Now you’re sitting or standing in the right position, it’s time to find the right monitor setup. With dual monitors, one will be the dominant one you use to view what you're typing or entering. Sit this monitor directly in front of you. Adjust the monitor arm so that the height of the monitor is at your eye level. You shouldn’t need to look up or down to see the screen.
Place the second monitor to the side at the same height. If you adjust the height of your chair or your sit stand desk, you may need to change the display settings.
Dual Monitor Arms
Using a dual monitor arm makes it safe and easy to adjust the height of your monitor screens. Ergolink has arms available to hold one, two, three or four monitors with dual monitor arms and triple monitor arms. They take just a little time to adjust the monitors’ settings so you can get on with productive work. There are arms available for every workplace or home setup.
Placement of Your Mouse
Place your mouse close to the keyboard so you don’t have to reach for it. This keeps your elbow at the correct 180-degree angle, reducing the chance of a repetitive stress injury. You should point the mouse at your primary monitor.
Eye Strain
Two smaller monitors provide a better screen resolution than one big screen. With eye fatigue a problem for many office workers, monitors are an important consideration. Adjust the display settings so both monitors have the same level of brightness and screen resolution.
Convenience & Productivity Multiplied
Once workers are used to working with dual monitors, most say they couldn’t go back to working on a single screen. They save time and frustration caused by constantly flicking between documents or spreadsheets. Dual monitors make life easy when you’re juggling multiple spreadsheets or websites.
Need Help Deciding on the Right Monitor Setup?
We’re here to help. If you have any queries about the right monitor arm for your setup, don’t hesitate to call us on (08) 9240 7066 or contact us online.