Although it’s tempting to give to your staff a multi-monitor set-up however, you should consider the glam, high-tech look and the potential productivity boost against the cost, desk space , and other aspects. Multi-monitor configurations offer more advantages over time, even with the possibility of risks of procrastination and the additional costs, but think about the bigger picture before you can make the right choice for your office.Advantages
A second monitor can make it much easier and quicker to work with multiple programs at the same time. Instead of switching between full-screen windows for each, the second program can be placed on the second screen which means less clicks and a faster process. This is particularly useful in an environment that is fast-paced and where quick email responses are required. An email client is open throughout the day for quick communications.
Multiple monitors can be beneficial to employees who utilize tablets or laptops to allow for access outside the office however, a bigger monitor space in the workplace particularly for devices with smaller screens, tiny keyboards , and trackpads. A laptop dock can give you the versatility of a full on workstation , with the option to take the laptop and bring it to a conference or outside the office to present.
Advantages
With the potential for additional applications that can be productive, is the possibility of additional distractions. A constant stream of emails open constantly could be beneficial, however, it could be distracting as it is always present. Maintaining open an IM or Twitter open is much more time-consuming.
There are practical issues also. The portable screen extender occupies extra space on the desk, and may not be readily accessible or desired in tight space. The additional monitors will also need to be bought, resulting in a costs in the short term to the business , which takes time to pay back with increased productivity.
Research on Productivity
The increase in productivity is often considered to be the most significant benefit when using a multi-monitor system and the evidence supports this. A 2012 study released in Proceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomic Society discovered that dual monitors are more efficient and less irritable than one monitor. Furthermore, 98 percent the participants picked dual monitors as their preferred configuration.
Hardware Requirements
Prior to purchasing additional monitors, it is important to know if your existing PCs can support multiple monitors. A quick check to the rear of computers will provide you the data you require. If the current video card is installed in your PC has more than one output port or your computer has several video cards the system is set for a second display. If not, more as well as upgraded video card need to be bought and incorporated into the price decision.