The Magic of the Multi-Monitor Setup

Have you ever felt like you were endlessly toggling between tabs, losing track of a tab, or trying to fit multiple windows on one screen?  Well, you're not alone.  Often, a single screen just isn't going to cut it.  That's why having multiple monitors have become one of the most valuable and affordable upgrades you can make to your workflow.

Multi-monitor setups make sense for a number of reasons -

1. Increased Productivity - Studies have shown that an additional monitor can improve productivity by up to 30%.  Think of it this way - if you are a chef, you want more counterspace.  The more counterspace, the more items you can have at the ready, and the less time spent looking for the coriander in the pantry.  Same theory applies to screen space.  The more screen space you have, the more information you can have available on the extra screen while working on the main.  I for example currently have my notes on one screen as I'm writing this blog post on the other.  No more flipping between windows or browser tabs.
2. Improved Workflow - Less distractions = improved processes.  Instead of minimizing and reopening apps and tabs from communication tools like email or your teams chat, you can dedicate one screen to them and check the urgency of a message at a glance so you don't lose your momentum while working on a more important matter the other. 
3. Improved Collaboration - While attending virtual meetings, one screen can be dedicated to the meeting while taking notes on the other.   If you're hosting, you can have your assets at the ready on the second screen without the awkward hold while you look for the asset you need and keep the meeting moving.

How should you get started?  Well, step one is to verify your computer or laptop has the ability to support multiple monitors.  Most modern devices will support this, but best to check.  My other suggestion is to start with two.  That is usually the sweet spot for most users.  Are you a hybrid, work out of a home office, or a traveler?  There are plenty of portable, single cable monitors (like the ViewSonic VA1655) you can keep in your backpack as you're on the go or tuck into a drawer at your home office to save space.

Ready to give you or your teams productivity a boost? Contact me at 607-385-0416, aaron@flworkplace.com or book a FREE 1 hr Consultation with me

Cheers!

Aaron