The multitude of smartphone and tablet models on the market can make it hard to find furnishings that fit ever-evolving technology, but a few basic adjustments can make offices and educational environments fit almost any device, from computers with multiple monitors to slim smartphones.
1) Customize Computer Stations
Each workstation should be tailored to the user’s needs by following basic ergonomic principles. A height-adjustable desk is an easy solution that allows FMs to meet most workers’ desk height needs with simple adjustments, notes office furniture manufacturer Haworth: “Adjustability of height and angle will allow the monitor to adjust to fit more users and postures.” Articulated keyboard pads, which allow users to adjust the height of the keyboard, ensure further customizability.
2) Be Mindful of Monitor Positioning
You should be able to easily adjust the tilt, pan and height of screen stands and monitor arms to avoid neck and eye strain. Tilting the screen minimizes glare.
Monitor arms that can hold multiple screens can help users maximize desk use, suggests furniture manufacturer Steelcase: “Multiple monitors standing on a worksurface wastes valuable desktop real estate. A multiple monitor arm keeps the worksurface open and available for portable devices, analog materials and informal collaborations.”
3) Accommodate Portable Technology
Some chairs, especially those intended for educational settings, feature dedicated support for tablets and smartphones. Look for models that can accommodate portrait or landscape positions, which will make it easier to view materials. For larger portable devices like laptops, consider adjustable desk stands that can be moved and repositioned to achieve the best screen height, tilt and pan adjustment for each user.
Additionally, docking stations are useful because they let the user charge portable devices without having to fuss with cords and cables whenever they need to remove a portable.
