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June 10, 2022 - 4 min read
It used to be a perk of the job but now working from home, at least part of the time, is the norm for many of us. It’s estimated that by 2025, 70% of the world’s workforce will be working remotely at least five days a month. “Our work lives have changed so much in the last three years and this hybrid working model means that a home office is no longer a luxury, but a necessity,” says Jason Tavoletti, The Good Guys Buyer – Computer Tech.
It’s one of many work and life trends The Good Guys has seen in its impressive history. In fact, this year marks 70 years of The Good Guys helping customers to find the right appliances (and home-office tech!) to make their lives easier.
“Now that it’s generally you, instead of your boss, who is equipping your office, it’s important to choose devices that will stand the test of time. That’s where our tech experts can help,” says Jason.
The short answer? It’s whatever works for you. “If you feel comfortable where you work and find it attractive, your mood will be lifted and you will enjoy working there,” says psychologist Dr Maggie Kirkman. “Ideally, you'll be able to close the door on your work and transition to relaxation at the end of the day. Even if you don’t have a separate place to work, try to organise it comfortably and efficiently, marking the boundaries as best you can."
Part of that process is personalising your workspace. You’re in your home, so make it homely. Paint your home office in colours you enjoy, have meaningful pictures and knick-knacks around, and make sure your chair, desk and computer set-up are tailored to your ergonomic needs.
When you’re ready to buy new computer tech, “Think about the programs you’re using now and how much RAM and processing power that takes, and then think about what you’ll need in the future,” he says.
“It’s always better to go one or two sizes or specifications better than what you need now, so you have space to grow because software will only become more demanding as innovation progresses.”
It’s also good to have an eye on the latest technology, such as Wi-Fi 6, because it will only become more vital in the future.
Also, think beyond computers and printers. Do you work better with music playing, making audio a must? Is there a type of light (warm or cool?) that helps you focus? Do you have your best ideas while running on a treadmill? This is your space, so make it work for you.
The great thing about home-office computers is that you can set them up exactly how you like it. Some important things to look for are making sure you can plug in two or more monitors for that dual screen productivity boost, and making sure they’re upgradable if that’s something that’s important to you.
The best home-office laptop is the one that’s best suited to your needs and the kind of job you’re doing. But if you’re taking your laptop to and from the office, look for ones that are powerful and light, so you don’t hurt your back, lugging them around. Also make sure they’ve got plenty of RAM, as well as a bigger hard drive and more powerful processor than you think you’ll need, because that way it'll last you longer into the future.
There are some amazing smart monitors these days that can be a computer monitor during the day, and work as a TV at night, which is perfect for people who are working and living in a small space. If you have more room, look for 4K monitors to reduce eye strain and have a more comfortable viewing experience.
If you have noisy neighbours or little kids playing in the other room, noise-cancelling headphones are a must. Otherwise, a smart speaker to blast your work-day playlist is a must. Also make sure you have a good, ergonomic keyboard and mouse, or a laptop stand if you’re using a laptop.
Sony Premium Noise Cancelling Headphones
Logitech MX Master 3 Wireless Mouse
At The Good Guys, we’ve been ahead of the technology curve for 70 years, so we can help you create a home office that will meet your needs now and into the future. Come and see us in-store or online for expert advice, the best range and the best prices.
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