Working from Home? Tech Tweaks That Actually Help
Working from home can be an inspiring, even life-transforming experience. Part of the joy of it is that you’ll be able to tailor your working environment to suit your individual preferences – to an extent that isn’t always possible in a more traditional, centralized workplace.
Part of this customization process is the investment in the right tools. In a modern home office, there are some upgrades that might stand out as particularly effective. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
Upgrade Your Internet Connection
If you’re going to be participating in videoconferencing sessions or regularly exchanging large files with a cloud-based storage platform, then you’ll want to be sure that you can do so reliably. This is where upgrading your internet connection can be a game-changer. Make sure that your provider is giving you enough bandwidth, that you have WiFi coverage wherever you intend to work, and that your home network is robust enough to handle all of the traffic.
Invest in an External Monitor (or Two)
If you’re squinting at a small laptop screen, then the investment in an extra monitor might make a huge difference. Displays of twenty-seven inches or more are now very reasonably priced. You can keep an eye on many windows simultaneously and switch your attention quickly from one workspace to the next.
It’s worth noting that you can often attain a similar experience using the ‘workspaces’ functionality built into most modern operating systems. Make sure that you’ve explored this fully. Two monitors tend to represent the sweet spot for most people, unless you’re a stock trader who needs to keep constant track of the Dow Jones.
Improve Your Lighting Setup
Sitting in a darkened room, staring at a bright display, can be bad news for your eyes. Get the lighting setup in your office right, and you’ll not only reduce the risk of eye strain but also improve your look during video calls. LED desk lamps, halo lights around the back of your monitor, and large windows and skylights might make a big difference.
Optimize Your Audio
Often, attaining that all-important state of flow means pumping the right focus-driving tunes into your ears. A good pair of noise-cancelling headphones also confers an additional benefit in that they will block out any audible distractions from elsewhere in the home.
During video calls, the quality of your headphones and microphone is pivotal. Your colleagues and clients will need to be able to hear what you’re saying – and vice versa.
Master Cable and Power Management
Your home office setup will need to be powered appropriately, and all of those loose Ethernet, USB, DisplayPort, and power cables will need to be tied up – and ideally clipped to the underside of your desk. This will not just eliminate visible clutter but also make the workspace safer. Having access to a supply of spare cables and the relevant connectors might also help you react more decisively to problems with your setup.
