Dual screens: Cheapest way to improve productivity
July 2, 2008 by Shane BorerPosted in: Cost cutters, Efficiency, Latest news & views, Technology
Everyone wishes they could get more done in less time. Another computer monitor might be the solution they’re looking for.
It’s not a ploy to sell fancy LCD monitors — more accountants are swearing by the multi-screen method. AICPA estimates employees can see up to a 50% increase in productivity. Others put that number somewhere closer to 20%, but even that’s an amazing feat, considering many companies have older monitors idling in storage.
The key to increased efficiency: Employees can consult info on one screen while they’re working on something on the other. That means greater accuracy, fewer errors, and best of all, no need to switch between pages and re-size windows.
Plus, it can be done with almost no cost. Hardcore multi-screen users suggest using special programs to synch the monitors up, but generally, any computer running Windows Vista or XP will be able to link them. Once they’re set up, a mouse or the Alt-Tab keys can easily switch between screens.
Another cost-saver: With two or more screens at their disposal, employees won’t need to print nearly as much paper. The savings in the first month alone are enough to spring for a sleek 22-inch model.
Tags: Computer monitors, Dual-screen, Improving productivity, LCD, Windows Vista
September 8th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
I have a laptop with a docking station. I keep my email up all of the time, as well as a program that I use once or twice a day, on the laptop screen to the left. My dock is front and center and keeps all of the other Microsoft applications that are my heavy-hitters. The dual screen is a life saver.
September 22nd, 2008 at 5:04 pm
I implemented dual screens for my accounting and IT staff 3 years ago. The increase in productivity allowed my current staff to absorb about 25-30% more work as our business grew and kept us from hiring additional staff. The increase in productivity varied and the largest increase in productivity was from those that switched regularly between 3 or more programs and referred to data on one program to use in another. Later, others in the company caught onto the concept and started implementing it with their heavy users. Keep in mind that their is a cost. Even if the second monitor is free, it will have to be replaced some day, and many computers need an updated video card to handle the two monitors (not the case for laptops).