How dual monitors can improve productivity

Maximizing productivity in the workplace is paramount in today's fast-paced work environment, and using dual desktop monitors is an effective way to achieve this. Instead of compressing and squeezing the workspace, it can be expanded using two monitors, allowing you to efficiently manage tasks and deadlines. Let's explore how using multiple monitors can positively impact your work routine.

For many businessmen or professionals who are always on the go, having a laptop is essential. However, as a significant proportion of the world has shifted to a work-from-home environment, many have discovered the potential drawback of portability: limited screen real estate. This is where a desktop monitor comes in handy.

It is worth considering that the combination of a laptop and a desktop monitor can lead to greater efficiency and accuracy in completing work. The underlying reason is the reduced need to switch between windows. Dual monitor users have a 15% lower window switching frequency compared to single monitor users. While this percentage may seem trivial, it is essential to keep in mind that saving even five minutes per task can result in almost an hour of time savings per day. In a world where personal and professional boundaries are blurring; this extra hour can be a determining factor in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preventing burnout.

Normally to work you have the web browser open to research and the Microsoft Word document open to take notes. This involves reading the article on the website and then clicking on the document to write some notes. Then minimize the document or click in the browser window to retrieve it. Then the cycle begins again. Click up, down, up, down, click, click.

This action is known as accumulation. Wouldn't it be easier to have the browser open on one monitor and the document open on the other? This will provide a clear view of each application so you never have to take your eyes off the article or your fingers off the keyboard to take notes. No more clicks, clicks, clicks, and no more wasting time with up, down, up, down.

The latest lines of monitors are equipped with a wide range of connectivity options, including USB-C. The inclusion of this feature allows the monitor to provide reliable Ethernet and power, effectively transforming it into a productivity hub. Additionally, users can create a neat and organized workspace with a single cable for audio, video, and charging. It should be noted that clutter can have negative effects on our cognition, emotions, mental health, behavior, and decision-making ability. Therefore, installing a second monitor can generate benefits that go beyond saving time.

Not all screens are the same

Screens can affect health and productivity. Laptops are not ergonomically designed for long-term use, while desktop monitors allow for better ergonomics. However, monitors emit a dim blue light that can strain your eyes. Ideally, choose monitors with low blue light and flicker-free technology for greater visual comfort.

Being able to see more

Monitors have a positive impact on gaming, shopping, and watching movies. They are essential for programmers, data analysts, and designers. Some monitors are curved for a more immersive experience. With immersive technologies such as AR, VR, and 3D, the displays will support emerging workloads.

On the periphery

Think carefully about using appropriate computer peripherals in the workspace. Many workers still prefer external peripherals over integrated ones. Headsets and speakers with office-grade specifications are now essential for making productive audio and video-only calls.

Ergonomics

Remote work has become the new normal and workspaces need to be optimized for better productivity. It is possible to create a healthy and creative work-from-home environment by adjusting monitors and chairs for proper ergonomics. Desktop monitors can be an easy first step toward achieving this goal.

Incorrect uses of dual monitors

There are different opinions about using two monitors as a means to increase productivity. Some comment that it could be detrimental to productivity. However, this claim is based on how you choose to use the additional screen.

If the second monitor is intended for personal entertainment, such as watching a movie, playing a video game, or watching a music video, there is a high probability that attention will be diverted from work. The main goal of dual monitors is to expand the functional workspace, not to create a distraction that takes attention away from tasks.

It's about adaptation and flexibility

When considering a dual-monitor setup, the main advantage of purchasing a second display is the ability to choose a large size. With ample space available, multiple applications can be comfortably kept open simultaneously. For those creating 4K video content, using one monitor for editing and the other for viewing in full resolution is a viable option. This approach offers the advantage of viewing content on a large screen without loss of quality, which is a significant improvement over viewing a truncated version on a laptop.