When you work from a home office, productivity is important. With so many easy distractions, you really need to work on getting focussed and getting stuff done. To make that task easier, there are various gadgets you can incorporate into your home office.
The Computer
This one is a no-brainer. You work from home, you need a computer. Finding the right computer is up to you, what you need it for, and your particular tastes. You will probably already have a good idea of what will work for you.
When working in your home office, consider using multiple monitors. Those who do this swear by it. Bear in mind that having three monitors is usually better for your neck than two. You can visit iiNet directly by clicking this link.
If you are working from home and out and about, a laptop could be the best option (connected to a monitor when working at home). A tablet is also an option, and while it can limit the work you can do, there are a number of apps available to help improve productivity while working.
The Internet
If you want to work from home, you need a fast, reliable internet connection. Check out the coverage of different providers in your area and look at costs. A phone and internet bundle could be a great way to save money.
When it comes to gadgets, you will need to get a great router – one that provides a reliable wireless connection to all your home and office gadgets. Also try to choose a smartphone that provides a personal wireless hotspot, as this can come in extremely handy if your home internet crashes.
The Phone
Depending on the kind of work you do, you may be able to get by with just a smartphone, or you may also need to have a landline installed. No need to go into all the nifty things a smartphone can do here, but be sure to choose one that offers you the functionality you need to run your business.
In terms of gadgets, consider getting a speaker phone (this should be inbuilt in a smartphone, but you may need one for your landline phone, or one that offers higher quality than your smartphone speaker phone).
You could also invest in a wireless headset for hands-free calls. Or if you want to access all your devices from one gadget, check out the Calisto 835, which allows you to access and manage calls from your landline, mobile and PC phone.
The Printer
Consider buying a wireless all-in-one printer. It can be used to print documents from all your wireless devices, and it can also be used as a copier and scanner.
The Working Environment
Investigate ways in which you can make your home office working environment more productive. That could include buying an ergonomic chair, decluttering with a multiple device charger such as the Zip Touch-n-go, sharing between computers with something like the Wormhole Switch (or the cloud), or even combining exercise and work with a treadmill walking work station.
Setting the Mood
For some, music makes them more productive. Play music through your computer using iTunes, Windows Media Player, or an app such as Spotify (a great option for pre-made playlists and new music). Invest in some quality speakers, or if you need to block out noise, get some noise cancelling headphones.
Plants
While plants are blatantly not gadgets, they can help to improve productivity. An abundance of research has shown that having a plant at your desk not only improves productivity, it can reduce stress, improve wellbeing and mood, reduce sickness, improve air quality, and improve concentration.