Home-Work: Setting Up Your Home Office
As the times change and technology advances, the traditional workplace is changing. More and more people are avoiding those lengthy commutes by working from home. But before you throw out the business suit and put on the pyjamas, you'll need a work environment that makes it all possible.Industrial Revolution has some tips on how to make a home office that works.
The Desk
An ergonomic, comfortable seating arrangement is absolutely essential. If you're going to be typing a lot, make sure the desk isn't too high - you should not have to raise your arms to reach the keyboard. Many desks have keyboard trays, which allow you to type more comfortably.
The Chair
Your chair is important - it's where you're going to be spending an awful lot of your time. If you're not comfortable, you simply won't enjoy working. Stacking phonebooks on your seat is neither comfortable nor ergonomic. Look for a chair with adjustable height so that you are properly aligned with your monitor. If you expect clients to visit your office, don't forget to have adequate seating ready. Having a spare office chair available looks much more professional than grabbing a seat out of the dining room.
The Lighting
Don't count on natural light to keep the room bright. Gentle incandescent lighting can brighten your space without tiring out your eyes. A targeted desk lamp will help illuminate (if not eliminate) paperwork. Position your monitor so that the sun doesn't shine directly on the screen. Too much glare will make you squint and give you headaches.
The Organizing
Keep your own habits in mind. Are you naturally tidy, or is your desk usually buried in clutter? Decide ahead of time where everything goes - and be consistent. Keep frequently-used items within arm's reach. Put your walls to work with wall files; any papers you're not using can wait there until they're needed again. Try to keep your work materials separate from your personal life. This will help you slip into "work mode" and let everyday distractions wait until you're done. Finally, remember that this is YOUR space, and you can plan and decorate it however you want! That's one of the big perks. With a little thought and effort, you can create the best possible workspace for you - make the most of it! |
