Tech features that could level up your productivity
Professionals and hardcore users may already know this, but having the right technological tools can really boost your overall performance, making your work easier, smoother and faster. But which tools in and around the monitors can really help you deliver the best results? Here are the ones that we’ve selected to share with you.
First and foremost, a reliable internet connection together with a businesslike laptop, and ergonomic peripherals are what make the solid foundation. The right technology setup will simplify both collaborating with colleagues and managing different tasks, dramatically improving your productivity.
Diverse connections
Good connectivity ensures smooth and fast transfer of data with no waste of time and energy.
There are multiple options available at the moment, and the new ones are always around the corner through continuous innovations to ensure ever-faster data transfer. The most common connections for monitors are HDMI, DisplayPort (or DP for short) and various types of USB, besides the legacy options such as VGA and DVI for older devices.
USB being the most well-known and fast-booming, there are a broad variety of USB hardware available for consumers, which ranges in 11 different connectors. While the USB Type A is still the most used, USB-C is the emerging standard for charging and transferring data at the same time. It’s a single, simple and practical way to carry different signals on the same cable: the display signal and high-speed data are transferred via USB-C (DisplayPort alternate mode), while simultaneously powering and charging your laptop (USB Power Delivery).
The B1 Line offers the latest USB-C in its Philips 243B1 model, which combines a high-quality and versatile display and a docking station with built-in power delivery.
Team communication tools: Chat, cloud and camera
Many professionals work in teams, and in this situation, some specific technologies and features could highly impact the efficiency of teamwork:
- Instant chat program – For easy communication, either with the whole team or privately with specific colleagues an instant chat program cannot be neglected. There are various apps available, and one may need to have several of them running at once.
- Cloud service – This allows one to share data in real time, while providing the space to store all the files safely in a virtual place where all employees have access.This allows teammates to be spatially distanced but still work in full swing everywhere, all the time.
- Webcam & Conference call system – An integrated webcam provides valuable assistance in cooperation, specifically for teams whose members are located in different places. It makes communication easier and more direct, almost like a real-life discussion. Webcams can be integrated into the monitor, in the laptop or be external. Although the first option (monitor or laptop) is surely more comfortable, it’s not as safe as an external option that can be unplugged, free from any hacking. What can you do to avoid camfecting? One possible solution could be choosing a monitor with a pop-up webcam that can be safely tucked away, avoiding any possible hacking.
The Philips 243B1JH offers hybrid USB docking to simplify connections (offering one USB dual mesh cable with Type C and A connectors to deliver video, Ethernet, power-charge and DisplayLink) and a pop-up webcam equipped with advanced sensors for Windows Hello™ facial recognition.
Comfort all around
Comfort should be a top priority, specifically for users who spend many hours working in front of a desk. To get a good set up you should focus on ergonomics, starting from the way you sit, to all other adjustments like monitor height, mouse and keyboard position and, last but not least, your behavior (taking frequent but short breaks are proved to help reducing eye strain[1]!). Technologies and peripherals can significantly enhance comfort, which is crucial for long hours in front of the computer. Researchers claim that office comfort can affect productivity[2] – but what is comfort to you?
When using a monitor, the display top should be aligned with your eyebrows. A height-adjustable stand will help you create your own personalized experience, for better ergonomics. But comfort is available for the eyes as well. While it is critical to keep the monitor at the right distance (according to the display size) and pay attention to the light sources around you, there are also many features designed for your viewing comfort. For example, eye-friendly LowBlue Mode and Flicker-Free technologies are included in the Philips 242B1, a great entry-level monitor that offers sturdy and reliable features for those spending many hours in front of displays.
What about peripherals? Everything we use consistently has repercussions on our well-being. Just as your desk should be a certain height and your chair should provide back and neck support, your peripherals must also be chosen wisely. The mouse could cause pain to the wrists, creating a burning sensation with every click. An ergonomic mouse fits the contour of the hand, reducing the strain on fingers and cutting down on joint pain. The same principle applies to keyboards, another tool we use constantly. And comfort includes the ears as well, specifically if we are often in VCs: this means looking for headphones that offer thoughtful features like padded ear cuffs and cushioned headbands, while also providing good sound quality and noise-cancelling options.
We’re at the bottom of our tricks and suggestions for creating the most personalized and comfortable set-up ever – what do you need to really boost your productivity? Webcam, ergonomic stands or connectivity? Why not the full package? It’s time to search for your next monitor!
[1] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321536
[2] From Haynes, Barry. (2008). The impact of office comfort on productivity. Journal of Facilities Management. 6. 37-51.