I want a big screen too!

Now there is a new excuse that every white collar worker can use when their boss harp on their productivity levels. Usually, when things do not get done, the subordinates on the ground would get the blame. However, now, a study by University of Utah has found a new excuse for these people. They tested on how well people do basic computer activities like editing a document but with different monitor configurations.

The following is their finding:

People using the 24-inch screen completed the tasks 52% faster than people who used the 18-inch monitor; people who used the two 20-inch monitors were 44% faster than those with the 18-inch ones. There is an upper limit, however: Productivity dropped off again when people used a 26-inch screen. (The order of the tasks and the order of computer configurations were assigned randomly.)

I don't know what the average blogger use for their monitor configurations, but from time to time my second monitor comes on the table connected to my brother's ibook G4. (yea, ibook is quite old, from 2003-2006) Having two screens can be quite cool and at times save the hassle of dragging the windows around or minimizing them.

The second monitor can have many uses, all up to one's creativity. Like when you are typing an document, it can be use for displaying references, or can be used for photo editing. You can also keep track of your stocks while you do your work. Basically, it enlarges your working space and prevent clutter, making things more organized. Of course, there are other uses too, like watching youtube while you work, playing plane simulation games or CS etc. with a wider view. Even just showing my itune playlist on the second monitor while I work makes me feel that its justified to have it there.

Anyway, take a look at this configuration, I could also put it left-right side by side. Quite a nifty little feature if you ask me.

My Own Dual Screens

Anyway, now, i do not just want multiple screens, I think if I am gonna stay in place to do stuff instead of being mobile, the best is to get a big monitor, something like 20 to 24 inch. Too big, I might have to sit 2 metres or my neck will strain as I keep turning left and right. Our eyes can only have a maximum optimum view of about 50 degrees. A 20 inch would be just nice as compared to a 30 inch, I think. With a big monitor, if need arises, I just to plug my laptop into it and I am ready to work.

Having said all that, Dilbert would not advice you to mail your boss tomorrow..

Here's why:



Ask me, you better, don't spend too much time watching youtube on the second screen while you work!