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When it comes to maximizing productivity, establishing the perfect desk setup is essential. There are many different aspects to consider when setting up your workstation. What type of desk should you choose? How many monitors do you need? And what other accessories should you invest in? This post covers all the essential factors to consider when creating the perfect desk setup.
Desk type
Desks come in many different shapes and sizes. It’s important to assess the space you have and your work needs in order to choose the right desk solutions. Beyond traditional desks, some of the different types of desks to consider include:
- Storage desk: These have drawers or shelves beneath to help store equipment and documents, and reduce clutter.
- Executive desk: These are extra-large desks for those who want to feel powerful. They’re ideal if you need lots of space to work, but not suitable for small rooms.
- Corner desk: These are great space-saving options that are designed to fit in the corner of a room.
- Sit/stand desk: These desks are height adjustable, allowing you to sit or stand while using them.
Computer type
The type of computer that you use is also important to consider. Traditional desktops remain a powerful option for many intensive tasks, but they are not portable. A growing number of office workers are now choosing to work from laptops because they don’t have to work at their desk, especially as many modern laptops have the power to match most mid-range desktops. Of course, some people may prefer the option to keep their work all in one place.
Number of monitors
A lot of professionals are happy with one monitor, especially if you only have a small desk to work with. However, if you regularly have to cross-reference documents or web pages and are fed up with constantly switching between tabs, opting for 2 or more monitors could greatly improve productivity. Think carefully about where to place these monitors – are they best placed one above each other or side by side?
Lighting
Good lighting is important in an office to help you work effectively and reduce eye strain. When thinking about where to position your desk, first consider the location of windows. Receiving natural light as you work will improve your mood, but it’s important to not have light pouring behind you onto your screen, as this will cause screen glare – aim to position windows in front or beside you instead. Additional artificial task lighting is also worth considering, especially when working at your desk in the evening or early in the morning. Explore styles of desk lamp to provide the focused light that you need.
Ergonomics
Ergonomics is the practice of creating an environment that is comfortable and that reduces strain on the body. This involves making sure that your chair, desk, screen and keyboard are all positioned in the right place. Selecting an ergonomic office chair is recommended – these chairs are height-adjustable and also have features like an adjustable headrest and adjustable armrests. Ideally, you want to be sitting directly in front of your keyboard and monitor with the top of the monitor at eye level. You don’t want to be bending over too much while sitting at your desk, as this will cause back and neck strain.
Cable management
Cable management is a task that many people overlook when setting up their office. It’s important that cables aren’t trailing across the floor and serving as a trip hazard. At the same time, make sure to avoid messy knots of cables so that you can easily unplug or switch up cables. Cable sleeves and cable ties can help to bundle cables together, while cable trunking can be used to attach cables to walls.
Clutter control
A cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind. Aim to keep your desk clutter-free by considering storage for any documents or accessories you may need. Some desks have storage built in underneath, however some people prefer separate storage containers. Try not to go too crazy with desk ornaments, and keep a trash can below your desk to discourage trash from piling up on your desk.
Dust control
It’s important to keep your workstation dust-free – both to protect your health and the health of your computer. Have a microfiber cloth handy that you can use to clean your desk, keyboard, and monitor. When it comes to very dusty work environments like workshops, it may be worth looking into dust curtains or electrical enclosures provided by enclosure companies to prevent dust from reaching you and your machines. Setting up an air purifier next to your desk can also help to reduce dust levels in the air, keeping your workstation clean and healthy.
Accessories
There are a number of accessories that you may want to consider buying for your desk. Some of these have already been mentioned, such as second monitors, desk lamps, and air purifiers. Other accessories you may want to consider include:
- A high-quality keyboard: Ideally, something that is durable and easy to clean.
- A mouse: Necessary if you have a desktop, but also preferred by many laptop users.
- A mouse mat: Not all desk surfaces are suitable for using a mouse on.
- A webcam: For carrying out video calls.
- A microphone: Also useful for video calls, VoIP calls or recording audio.
- A phone handset: While some people use their smartphone for work, many still prefer a separate work handset.
- A stationery organizer: For organizing pens, staplers, and other stationery tools.
Personalization
Finally, you should consider adding some personal touches to make your workspace feel more welcoming. This could include photographs of loved ones or desk toys and ornaments that reflect passions and hobbies. You should also think about the use of color and how this can be used to inspire you – blue is typically very calming and can aid concentration, while green can stimulate creativity. Ultimately, you should try to use colors that you find comforting.