Workrite Ergonomics https://workriteergo.com Innovative Ergonomics Office Products & Space Optimization Tue, 07 Apr 2020 20:26:59 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 Work Active: Why Sitting Too Much is Bad for You and What to Do About It https://workriteergo.com/work-active-sitting-much-bad/ Mon, 18 May 2020 09:00:12 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=21457 Workactive Why Sitting Too Much is Bad for You & [...]

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Workactive

Why Sitting Too Much is Bad for You & What to Do About It

work-active-sit-stand

Normal, everyday life is filled with a lot of sitting these days. We sit in our cars, we sit at our desks, we sit at the kitchen table, and we sit on our couches. Most of us have to actively seek out exercise by joining a gym or attending exercise classes because our regular days are so sedentary. This shift toward more sitting and less regular movement has only been increasing over the years.

We’re meant to move; our ancestors spent days hunting down large animals, and later, working in fields and factories, on their feet nearly the entire day. While it’s not necessary to have quite that level of daily activity, the evidence is clear that not getting enough regular movement can have some unwanted effects on our health and put us at risk for diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes. A sedentary lifestyle can also be draining on your energy levels and mood.

That’s why sit stand desks are the perfect solution to the issue of sedentary office work. They allow you to move throughout the day. You’re not forced to remain standing, nor are you bound to a day of sitting. You can work comfortably by continuously changing positions and adjusting your desk and other equipment to fit your body. 

 

Too much sitting has many health risks

Sitting for long periods of time, like at a desk all day, has a number of health risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, “they include obesity and a cluster of conditions — increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist and abnormal cholesterol levels — that make up metabolic syndrome. Too much sitting overall and prolonged periods of sitting also seem to increase the risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer.” The other less deadly side effects of sitting all day include muscle and joint discomfort, soreness in the back and neck, varicose veins, and weight gain.

 

There are also mental and emotional side effects

New research shows that sitting all day “not only carries a physical toll, but may also increase risks of mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression,” according to the Association for Psychological Science. The study found that employees who spend most of the day seated had higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to employees who had more active jobs.

The same study also found that physical activity outside of work hours didn’t protect sedentary workers from the negative effects of sitting. “If people sat for most of the workday, even if they were physically active and getting exercise in their off-hours, they still showed relatively higher rates of anxiety and depression symptoms than did workers who sat for less than 3 hours a day.” The negative effects of sitting can’t be undone through exercise alone. We have to reduce the amount we sit in order to really protect our bodies and minds.

 

The solution: a sit stand desk (and other ergonomic equipment)

Sit stand desks allow those who are typically bound to a desk during the workday to swap some of their sitting hours for standing hours. Height adjustable workstations allow you to move throughout the day so you’re not spending too much time sitting or standing (because there are also some negatives to standing too much). 

The right kind of sit stand desk will have a wide range of adjustability and can adjust to your specific height and proportions. One that reminds you to change positions throughout the day will help you get into the habit of sitting and standing while you work (like Sentinel, Sierra HX, or Fundamentals with the new bluetooth switch).

Combine your sit stand desk (or your standing desk converter on top of your regular desk) with other ergonomic equipment to ensure you can work comfortably all day long. A monitor arm will help you put your screen(s) in the right position, and an anti-fatigue mat will make standing more comfortable and active. Practicing good posture is also important to ensure you get the most of your ergonomic office equipment.

 

Other ways to be more active in your daily life

Once you’ve started standing more at work, try adding other activity into your day. Take breaks to stretch at your desk or go for a walk outside during your lunch hour. Opt for the stairs over the elevator. Have your colleagues join you in being more active by holding walking meetings or standing huddles. Sign up for an exercise class and bring a friend to keep you motivated. If you can, walk or ride your bike to work or to run errands rather than driving. In your leisure time, try active hobbies like gardening, hiking, or cycling. Whatever you enjoy, just try to add some more movement to your day and you’ll be set up for a healthy, active life.

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Work Active: Pro Tips for Pro Switches https://workriteergo.com/work-active-pro-tips-pro-switches/ Tue, 05 May 2020 11:00:36 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=21367 Workactive Pro Tips for Pro Switches Did You Know You [...]

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Workactive

Pro Tips for Pro Switches

Did You Know Your Desk Could Do This?

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Sit stand desks are great for helping us get more movement into a normal workday. The idea is not to stand constantly, but to ensure you change positions often, alternating between sitting and standing. Stand for a few minutes when you get to your desk after a long commute. Stand while you take a phone call. Stand after lunch to help maintain your focus and avoid the afternoon crash. Stand when your back feels a little tight or your neck is stiff. Adjustments give you freedom and that is good for your body and your mind!

A sit stand desk with a programmable switch will help you go from sitting to standing (and back again), easier than ever. Here’s our favorite, and maybe surprising, features of programmable sit stand desk switches.

 

Preset Heights

While standard sit stand desk switches require you to manually move the desk up and down, letting go of the button at your desired height, nearly all pro switches have the ability to program preset heights for sitting and standing. Others even let you store preset heights for multiple users. If the switch allows for three preset heights, the third one is usually for when the user is wearing taller shoes, like high heels. So they would set a sitting height, a standing height with flat shoes, and a standing height with heeled shoes. When it’s time to change positions, the user just needs to press the button for their desired preset height, and the desk will stop at that exact position. No more hunting around for the right height; the desk does that for you!

 

Custom Height Min/Max

Custom heights are minimum and maximum heights that the user sets, forcing the desk to stop short of its total range. Let’s say you have a mobile ped under your desk that is on the taller side. Your desk can technically go all the way down and collide with the ped, so to avoid this, you’d set a custom min height on the pro switch to ensure the desk never goes down far enough to run into the mobile ped. The same goes for maximum heights, like if you have a shelf or other obstacle above the desk. You could set the switch to never go beyond a height just below that shelf to avoid any potential collisions.

 

Lock & Unlock

If you’ve ever accidentally moved your sit stand desk by, let’s say, hitting the switch with the arm of your chair, or bumping into the switch while leaning against the desk, you know it’s startling! To avoid any unexpected movement of the desk, most pro switches have a locking feature. Once enabled, the desk will not move up or down until you unlock the desk. This can be useful if the desk is in a public area or if it is used as a task table that is intended to stay put.

 

Smartphone Controlled

The Sierra/Fundamentals Bluetooth Switch and the Sentinel Bluetooth Switch can both be controlled with your smartphone through a custom app. This gives you the ability to set your height settings, track your sit/stand history, and get reminders that align with your activity goals. With the Sentinel Bluetooth Switch, you can also enable One Touch Auto Move, which makes changing working positions a breeze. Changing sit stand desk heights usually requires you to hold a button down, even if you have preset heights, but not with the Sentinel Bluetooth Switch. Just tap “sit” or “stand” via the smartphone app, and the desk will move all by itself to your desired preset height.

 

Workrite Programmable Switches

Solace Electric Standing Desk Converter comes with a programmable switch. Sierra HX, Fundamentals EX/LX, and Sentinel sit stand desks all have programmable switch options, and you can upgrade to a pro switch anytime.

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Solace Electric Standing Desk Converter

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Sierra/Fundamentals Bluetooth Switch

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Sierra/Fundamentals Programmable Switch

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Sierra/Fundamentals Programmable Switch

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Sierra/Fundamentals Programmable Switch

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Work Neat: How to Keep Your Cables Neat & Why It Matters https://workriteergo.com/work-neat-keep-cables-neat-matters/ Wed, 15 Apr 2020 12:00:46 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=21252 Workneat How to Keep Your Cables Neat & Why It Ma [...]

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Workneat

How to Keep Your Cables Neat & Why It Matters

work-neat-cable-management

Messy cables under your desk is not a good look. With sit stand desks, cable management is especially important because the desk needs to be able to seamlessly move up and down without cables getting caught, tangled, or ripped from their plugs. Whether you’re a cable managing pro or a total novice, here’s how to finally get your cables under control and why cable management is so important.

 

Different Types of Cable Managers

Make sure you have the right tools for the job. There are two main types of cable managers: horizontal or vertical. Horizontal cable managers run cables horizontally along the underside of your worksurface, from one end to the other, toward the nearest outlet. This keeps cords tucked up against the worksurface so you don’t see them dangling. Vertical cable managers run cables from the tabletop down to the wall or floor outlet and keep them in one neat bundle. This ensures that there is a single group of cords going from your desk down to the outlet. 

We recommend using both a horizontal cable manager — like a cable trough — and a vertical cable  manager — like a cable chain — and supplement any weak spots with cable ties, clips, or sleeves. Pro tip: make sure your cable managers are the right size. Wire Ways can be cut to size and cable chains can unlinked using quick ball and socket connections for the perfect fit.

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Horizontal Cable Manager – Cable Trough

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Vertical Cable Manager – Cable Chain

Start from Scratch

If your cables are a mess, the only way to really get them wrangled is to start from scratch. That means unplugging everything and removing your current “cable management”. Start over with the right cable management solutions to fit your workspace and technology equipment, and don’t cut corners. You may also need a power strip, extension cords, and/or zip ties to complete this project. 

Once you have a cable-free desk, install your new cable manager(s). Now you’re ready for the actual cable managing part – keep going!

 

Manage Your Cables Like a Pro

Start with the cords that you know you won’t need to move often, like your CPU, desk light, or any other fixed objects. Whether you’re using a cable management trough, chain, or sleeve, place your equipment onto your desk and start organizing your cables. 

Pro Tip: leave some slack! For all your cords, but especially the items you may need to move like your monitor, phone, and electric sit stand desk, leave a little slack. If you’re using a cable trough, you can keep the extra bit of cord neatly tucked away, allowing you to move your equipment when needed, but keeping that slack out of sight. We love a combination of a cable trough and a vertical cable manager, like the cable chain or mesh sleeve. This ensures that cables are neatly organized all the way to the outlet.

 

Why It Matters

Now your desk ought to be looking nice and neat, with cords and cables out of your way and out of sight. Why does it matter to have your cable under control? The biggest reason is safety — cords can be a tripping hazard. It’s also important that your sit stand desk is able to freely move up and down without the cables getting caught. The other big reason is aesthetics; no one likes a messy desk and keeping cables neat is an easy way to clear the visual clutter. Neat cables also make your workspace easier to use and easier to clean. It’s the first step to setting up a workspace that works right!

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Work Neat: The 4 Things I Always Keep on My Desk, and All the Things I Don’t https://workriteergo.com/work-neat-4-things-on-desk/ Wed, 01 Apr 2020 08:00:42 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=20833 Workneat The 4 Things I Always Keep on My Desk, and A [...]

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Workneat

The 4 Things I Always Keep on My Desk, and All the Things I Don’t

work-neat-desk

There are two kinds of people in the office, those who keep a neat desk, and those who don’t. While there’s nothing wrong with a messy desk, it can be distracting to you and those you work with. Some say a messy desk is the sign of a creative person, and what we call “mess” might be totally organized to someone else. But a neat desk actually can have a huge impact on your work.

Your desk represents who you are, and people form impressions of you based on your workspace. A tidy desk projects a level of efficiency and professionalism, and most people feel they can be more productive and focused in a neat and tidy office environment.

Working at a desk cluttered with papers and notes can make workers feel overwhelmed (whether they know it or not), and that outward chaos can lead to inner stress. These things can distract from the important tasks at hand and make you scattered. Keeping only the bare necessities on your desk will not only calm the chaos, but will allow you to be more efficient and productive every day.

 

The 4 Things I Always Keep on My Desk:

 

1. A Task Light

Lighting is a commonly overlooked ergonomic tool. How is lighting ergonomic, you say? Well, proper lighting where and when you need it allows you to see what you need to see without moving your body to find the right light or straining your eyes to read in dim light.

Those overhead fluorescents might seem nice, but they’re often not enough. The perfect task light is dimmable to fit the brightness you need, adjustable to point in the right direction, and has a light spectrum that represents true colors, like this one.

Companies can save on energy costs by reducing overhead light levels and providing workers with desktop task lights. To offset investment costs, research from the American Optometric Association says that “increasing task contrast is an important means of increasing overall performance.” So a task light will not only improve your ergonomics while you work, reducing fatigue and injury, but can increase your productivity, too.

 

2. A Plant

Having a plant on your desk helps bring some life to your space (literally). We all know the emotional and psychological benefits of a walk in the woods, so why not bring some greenery into your office? Spending time in nature (or bringing nature to you) can lift your mood and boost creative energy.

The best desk plants grow in low light with minimal maintenance, and some can even help filter the air. Try an air plant, succulent, spider plant, or snake plant in a pot near a window or under a desk light (natural light is best, but a desk light will work, too).

 

3. A Notepad

While many of us work 100% online, the trusted pen and paper are still great for keeping track of to-do’s, taking quick notes, and carrying with you to meetings.

The best way to cement important notes in your memory is to rewrite (or type) them. If you keep a to-do list in your notepad, rewrite it every morning with the top 3 tasks for the day so you can focus on what’s most important. When you get back to your desk after a meeting, rewrite or type up your notes so you’re more likely to remember them.

Another notepad perk, they’re great for doodling! Mind-mapping, bringing visual structure to notes, is a great brainstorming tool to develop innovative solutions to complex problems.

 

4. A Water Bottle

Depending on your body, most of us are supposed to drink about eight, 8 oz glasses of water a day (that’s half a gallon). Staying hydrated can increase energy, brain function, and memory. Water is great at relieving fatigue, even headaches and back pain! By drinking plenty of water, you’ll be productive and comfortable all day.

Keep a reusable water bottle on your desk and refill it a few times a day; you’ll be hydrated and have a chance to get up and take a stroll to the water cooler.

 

All the Things I Keep in My Drawer:

 

Mobile pedestals and file cabinets are a great way to store your supplies, and some can even double as a visitor chair by adding a pad on top.

Having storage space near your desk not only keeps you organized, it keeps you focused. With distractions out of sight, you can home in on the things that are important. While a clean and clear desk is great, there are still some tools you need throughout the day that should be nearby. 

 

Office Supplies

This is a broad term, but depending on the kind of work you do, your drawers should be stocked with pens, markers, staplers, scissors, paper clips, tape, and sticky notes. Keep these items organized with drawer dividers.

 

Cleaning Supplies

A neat desk should also be a clean desk! Spring cleaning your workspace can keep dust at bay and monitors free of fingerprints. 

Keep cleaning spray or wipes in your drawer so you can scrub down your worksurface once a week. Use microfiber cleaning cloths to wipe off your monitor, laptop, and phone (so you can actually see your screens!).

Hand sanitizer is also a good desk drawer staple. Colds and flus can spread fast through an office, so arm yourself with disinfectant to ward off sickness.

 

Electronic Accessories

Keep charging cords, back-up batteries, and USB drives in your drawer in case you need them. A couple AAA’s can save the day when your wireless mouse suddenly dies and you’ve got a deadline fast approaching. 

 

Important Documents

Record-keeping is a lost art, as most invoices, receipts, and important documents live in our email trash (oops). A better way is to print out and organize important reference material and records in your file cabinet. Use hanging file folders with labels to keep your documents neat and tidy.

 

Snacks

Trying to work when you’re running low on energy can be exhausting, and doesn’t produce quality results. Keeping healthy snacks at your desk for the mid-afternoon slump can help you drill down on your to-do list. Choose foods that are shelf-stable and nutrient rich, like mixed nuts, beef jerky, granola bars, or dried fruit. Store your snacks in air-tight containers so you don’t attract any unwelcome guests.

 

Tennis Shoes

Fitting in some exercise into your busy work-week can be difficult, but try squeezing in a brisk lunch-break walk or run. By keeping comfortable exercise shoes at your desk, you can quickly change your shoes and take an exercise break during the day.

Even a short stroll can help you feel good and stay focused for the rest of the day. Research shows that just 30 minutes of walking during the day can make employees happier and more productive.

 

A Book

Taking breaks throughout the day can do wonders for your work. While a walk is great for your body, giving your mind a break can make it easier to tackle work tasks. 

Keep a book in your drawer, something that’s entertaining and will take your mind off your work. Taking a mental break can help stimulate information retention and reduce stress.

 

Headphones

Unless you are lucky enough to have your own office, you may have to deal with the noise that comes along with an open office space. Phones ringing and constant chatter can be really distracting.

Use a pair of noise-cancelling headphones to drown out the noise and focus on your work. Try listening to calming music without lyrics, like instrumental version of your favorite songs.

 

A neat desk is a helpful tool that productive employees use to stay focused. If you’re a messy desk kind of person, examine what items you use or enjoy, and slowly remove the ones you don’t. Adopt an organization system that works for you. You may find that a tidy desk changes the way you work. Need help getting organized? Check out these storage and organization accessories.

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Work Remote: Ergonomics at Home – Seated Position https://workriteergo.com/work-remote-ergonomics-home-seated-position/ Tue, 31 Mar 2020 12:00:09 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=21433 Workremote Ergonomics at Home: Seated Position S [...]

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Workremote

Ergonomics at Home: Seated Position

So you’ve found yourself working from home and you don’t have the ergonomic setup you may have at work. Here are some guidelines for working in the seated position.

Slouching can lead to discomfort, fatigue, and back ache. To properly sit:

  • Make sure your feet are resting firmly on the floor
  • The depth of your chair should allow for your knees to extend beyond the edge of your seat
  • Your thighs should be approximately parallel to the floor
  • Arrange commonly used items so they are easily in reach
  • Forearms should be parallel to the floor and approximately 90 degrees from upper arms
  • Your wrists, neck, & head should be in a relaxed, neutral position; not angled up or down
  • The distance between your eyes and the monitor should be approximately arm’s-length, or at least 18″
  • The top third of the computer screen should be positioned at or below eye level

With proper posture, you can work ergonomically no matter where you’re working.

Learn more at workriteergo.com/ergonomics

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Work Remote: How to Set Up an Ergonomic Home Office https://workriteergo.com/work-remote-ergonomic-home-office/ Tue, 24 Mar 2020 08:00:56 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=21335 Workremote How to Set Up an Ergonomic Home Office [...]

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Workremote

How to Set Up an Ergonomic Home Office

work-remote-ergo-home-office

You may have suddenly found yourself working from home and are quickly realizing that your home office is not nearly as comfortable or ergonomic as your regular office. Don’t worry! We’ve prepared a quick and easy checklist for creating an ergonomic workspace no matter where you’re working. Just follow this basic set up guide to create a more ergonomic and productive home office.

 

Sit Stand Desk / Standing Desk Converter

The most important thing you can do for yourself is move on a regular basis. Your workstation should allow you to make frequent adjustments, and alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. 

Most of us don’t have sit stand desks at home (lucky you, if you do!), so we have to improvise. We’ve seen some crazy makeshift sit stand situations — like balancing your laptop on a pile of books — but we have a better solution… the Standing Desk Converter (**sounds of angels singing**). These babies will save your life when working from home because they’re extremely easy to install, basically just set it on top of any desk or table, and they have a wide range of adjustability. Tilt the keyboard for better wrist alignment, adjust the height for sitting or standing, and easily move the entire system when needed, like when you’re working from your kitchen table (we get it; we’ve been there).

We have a wide variety of Standing Desk Converters, but we definitely recommend Solace Electric because it’s a simple, retrofit sit stand option with the added bonus of electric height adjustability. And guess what? Solace Electric is on sale right now!

 

Monitor Arm / Laptop Holder

Working on a laptop? Staring down at a screen (or up, for that matter) is terrible for your neck. Whether you’re working on a laptop or a regular desktop, a monitor arm can help put your computer screen in the right position. Your monitor should be directly in front of you when sitting up straight, with your eyes hitting the top third of the screen. If you have to tilt your head up or down, your monitor needs an adjustment. A monitor arm is a simple fix to ensure you can work comfortably. We’d recommend Conform Single Articulating (for 1 monitor) or Conform Dual Articulating (for 2 monitors); they’re simple to use and give you the adjustability you need for proper ergonomic positioning.

Our monitor arms have an easy-to-install c-clamp base that mounts onto the edge of any desk or table, and they attach to any monitor with a VESA mount. You can add a Laptop Holder to the monitor arm and use your laptop like any other monitor. Just use a separate keyboard and mouse and you’re good to go! Trust us, you WILL notice the difference, and your neck will thank you.

Note: If you’re using a Standing Desk Converter, it may come with its own monitor mount. Score!

 

Helpful Accessories

Complete your home office set up with a few helpful accessories. If you plan on standing a lot, an anti-fatigue mat helps reduce leg and lower back discomfort. If your chair is not quite the right height for you, a footrest will help you prop your feet up. Desktop task lights are great for putting the right amount of light, right where you need it. For a more permanent home office, you may want to think about cable management solutions or storage accessories.

 

Practice Good Posture

Once you have the right equipment in place, let’s make sure it’s set up for optimal ergonomics and you are practicing good posture.

  • Forearms should be parallel to the floor with elbows at 90 degrees.
  • Wrists, neck and head should be in a relaxed neutral position – not angled up or down. 
  • The distance between your eyes and the monitor should be at least arms’ length. 
  • The top one-third of your computer screen should be positioned at or below eye level. 
  • When seated, adjust the height of your seat so that your feet are resting firmly on the floor and knees are at 90 degrees.
  • When standing, ensure your head, shoulders, hips, and ankles are in alignment and keep your weight evenly distributed between both feet.

Once you have your posture down, make sure to change it up often. Alternating between sitting and standing, stretching every so often, and making small adjustments throughout the day are really good for your body and will fend off fatigue.

 

The Ergonomic Home Office Checklist:

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Line of Sight Customer Highlight – U.A. Local 38 Training Center https://workriteergo.com/los-customer-highlight-ua-local-38/ Wed, 18 Mar 2020 08:11:07 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=21130 Line of Sight Customer Highlight: U.A. Local 38 Traini [...]

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Line of Sight Customer Highlight:
U.A. Local 38 Training Center

Joseph P. Mazzola Training Center in San Francisco, CA

“Now our computer labs can do double duty”

Liam Devlin, an instructor at U.A. Local 38, trains plumbers, pipe-fitters, HVAC mechanics, and welders. The training facility already had a few computer labs, but they didn’t have space to do other kinds of training. “Part of the training we do here involves CAD and 3D modeling on the computers, but we also do a lot of hands-on training with equipment on top of the table,” says Devlin.

Now, all 3 training rooms have been converted from computer labs to multi-use training rooms with Line of Sight Dual User Computer Training Desks from Workrite, providing over 60 seats that could be used for both computer-based or hands-on training. “The Line of Sight desks were a great way to facilitate both,” says Devlin. Now the computer labs can do double duty; the desks can be used as work tables or computer desks, saving valuable space and allowing U.A. Local 38 to train more apprentices.

Line of Sight was the perfect solution for U.A. Local 38

  • Multi-use training rooms for computer-based or hands-on training
  • Power outlets on the worksurfaces make power readily accessible
  • Cost-effective way to facilitate more students in their classrooms
  • Sales representative was easy to work with, responsive, and worked within their budget and timeline

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Work Smart: How to Streamline Your Workflow to Boost Efficiency https://workriteergo.com/work-smart-streamline-workflow-boost-efficiency/ Mon, 16 Mar 2020 08:00:41 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=20520 Worksmart How to Streamline Your Workflow to Boost Ef [...]

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Worksmart

How to Streamline Your Workflow to Boost Efficiency

work-smart-streamline-workflow-efficiency

Everything we do, from big projects to day-to-day tasks, is part of a workflow. Defined generally, workflow is “the sequence of industrial, administrative, or other processes through which a piece of work passes from initiation to completion.” It can also be how you manage a variety of projects and how you structure your personal processes. Streamlining your workflow means making everything you do more efficient. You can do this by creating and sticking specific processes, utilizing automation, implementing time management techniques, and delegating to others when it makes more sense to do so. Ultimately, the goal is to optimize efficiency so you can get it all done with less stress and in less time. 

 

Create a streamlined process & stick to it

Everything you work on, individually or with a team, should have a process. That process will be different for each application, but creating one and sticking to it will make everything go smoother. If you have existing processes for most projects, make sure that new projects can either work within those processes or create a new process before you get started. Evaluate existing processes to make sure they’re geared toward the ultimate goals of working efficiently and achieving valuable results. If there are parts of a  process that become sticking points, how can you smooth them out? Cut excess steps from your workflow that are dragging down the process or taking too much time. Integrate digital tools to make your processes better or faster. 

 

Automate (some of) your work

If much (or even just a small part) of your time is spent on busy work, automation can become your best friend. Automation tools like canned email responses, automatic reminders, scheduling things ahead of time, or setting up rules to keep your email organized will cut out unnecessary steps. You can also use automation to completely remove tasks from your workflow, like automatic updates or database syncing. For example, if you’re collaborating with colleagues on a document, rather than wasting time sending updated files back and forth via email, rely on cloud-based file storage so everyone can access the living document anytime. There are tons of options for automation that will be different depending on the tasks you do day to day, but evaluate what you’re spending time on that automation could do for you, and use the power of technology to streamline it.

 

Time your tasks

Parkinson’s law states that tasks expand to the time allotted, so if you let them, individual tasks will end up taking much longer than they should. Time yourself and set a limit for each task. Create a daily schedule with the tasks you want to complete that day and the time you want to allocate to them. Ignore your email and adjust your notification settings so that you can focus on one thing at a time. 

While we all may think we’re good at multitasking, it actually takes us much longer to get back into a project when we stop to do something else in between. Force yourself to do just one thing at a time, for a specific amount of time, and set a timer so you know when to switch gears. In between tasks, check your email and notifications, but make sure you keep track of the time you spend doing those things, too, as often times ‘just checking’ your notifications can take up more time than it should. 

Once you gather some initial data about how long it takes you to do each task, you can start to limit the time you spend on each thing. You may think this could cause you to rush, but really, it will help you focus and get more done!

 

Do the important stuff first & work to your advantage

Even if it’s not important in terms of your priorities, if something only takes a few minutes to do, just go ahead and do it now. Got a quick question over email that you know the answer to? Rather than let that email sit in your mailbox, go ahead and send your response. If you leave it for later, you now must read the email and think about it twice rather than just getting it off your to-do list right away. 

Each day, create a list of the things you want to work on and can realistically complete that day. If you are working toward a big, long-term project, break it up into smaller steps and try to check off one or two each day. Make sure to prioritize your to-do list in order of importance. This can be determined by a deadline or the value of the work. If something is time sensitive and valuable, it should be at the top of your list. If something is not time sensitive and not really that valuable, it should be at the bottom of your list. 

Work to your advantage by noticing what time of day (or in what location) you do each type of task best. If you’re more creative in the morning, block out that time for creative work. Notice when and how you work best and create your schedule around that. You’ll be able to work more efficiently by adjusting your schedule to fit how you work, streamlining your entire workflow to boost productivity.

 

Ask a lot of questions

Nothing kills efficiency like miscommunication, misunderstanding, or time wasted on the wrong thing. Asking a lot of questions in the beginning of a project and throughout the process will ensure you know what’s expected of you and can meet (or exceed) expectations. Make sure to ask for feedback along the way, even if what you’re working on isn’t completely polished. It could reduce the chance of re-doing work. Asking a lot of questions will help you get it right the first time or be able to pivot early in the project. 

 

Delegate when you need to

Sometimes the best way to streamline your workflow would be to ask for help from others. If you have a lot on your plate and can’t give your full attention to a certain project, handing it off to someone else who does have the time will ensure the project gets done without disrupting the rest of your work. Delegating to others can be difficult, but if you ask for help, projects can be streamlined to produce quality results in record time.

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Work Smart: Creating Smart, Multi-Use Training and Education Spaces https://workriteergo.com/work-smart-creating-smart-multi-use-training-education-spaces/ Tue, 03 Mar 2020 09:00:25 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=20516 Worksmart Creating Smart, Multi-Use Training and Educ [...]

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Worksmart

Creating Smart, Multi-Use Training and Education Spaces

work-smart-training-education

Creating training and education spaces, whether they’re part of a larger office or a standalone space dedicated to learning, is no small task. Smart training spaces are optimized for more than just one use, making them flexible enough to support a variety of needs. With the right furniture, accessories, and layout, your training rooms can be converted to regular workspace, conference space, or collaborative environments instantly. Here’s what to think about when creating smart, multi-use training and education spaces.

 

Flexible Furniture

Sometimes a training room is centered around computer work, but sometimes the group just needs distraction-free worksurfaces and a clear view of the instructor. That’s where Line of Sight Computer Training Desks come in. Line of Sight desks allow you the flexibility to arrange the training room in any way you like, and securely supports the technology you need. Computers and all ancillary technology are installed into the desk for secure storage and protection of valuable equipment. Adjust the height of the monitors to allow for a clear “line of sight” to the instructor or a presentation at the front of the room. All monitors in the room can be lifted and lowered with a single remote to go from computer-based training to face-to-face collaboration in an instant. The instructor can also allow individuals to adjust their own monitors or can lock individual desk switches anytime.

For a simple training room setup, Sonoma Mobile Tables are a great solution to create flexible environments. These mobile tables, set on casters, can roll where you need them to quickly rearrange a room, adding additional tables or removing extras with ease. They can be stored with the worksurfaces upright and easily nest into one another for compact storage. Quickly set the tables up with one-touch flip top technology, making it simple to set them up and store them away. Sonoma Mobile Tables allow you to create a simple training or collaborative space out of any open room.

 

Comfortable and Ergonomic

During a training or conference, it’s important that your participants are comfortable so they can pay attention to the task at hand. Comfortable and ergonomic workspaces, including adjustable chairs with proper back support and seat cushions, are the basis for the training space. Worksurfaces that are height adjustable add even greater ergonomic support, allowing individuals to adjust their furniture to their height and preferred working position. Ergonomic furniture reduces fatigue and boosts productivity. 

Other aspects of comfortable training spaces include the lighting in the room and visibility to the instructor, presentation, or training materials. Overhead lights are great for being able to read materials up close, but should be lowered when a projector is in use. Obstacles that may obstruct the line of sight to the instructor should be lowered or arrange the room to reduce potential visual blocks.

 

Integrated Technology

Smart training spaces that are meant for multiple uses always need to be able to support a wide range of technology. Integrating tech solutions into individual or group workspaces is crucial. For individuals, adding desktop power modules or worksurface power grommets allow users to keep their devices close at hand and charged up. The Zens Wireless Charger can be added to Line of Sight worksurfaces, layout flush with the top of the desk, and charges devices without wires or cables.

Technology for collaborative spaces like small group activities or larger training sessions can increase productivity and engagement. Smart boards and interactive tools take training to a new level, driving participation and broadening the possibilities for various learning tools. Line of Sight desks integrate computers and monitors into the desk so each user can have their own computer-based workstation, but the monitors can be hidden away inside the desk when the instructor wants the group to switch gears to more hands-on collaboration.

 

Bringing It All Together

Multi-use training and education spaces have to be smart, with flexible furniture that can move around easily and support different types of engagement. The right furniture is flexible enough for different tasks and uses, convertible for different types of training, mobile to adapt to group size, and supports technology as well as face-to-face collaboration. Integrating technology or access to power allows training spaces to do even more. Training spaces should be arranged to work for both big groups and small teams, like a single training room with multiple groups of workstations to accommodate the whole group but allow for smaller team to work closely as well.

Learn more about Line of Sight Computer Training Desks to take your multi-use training and education spaces to the next level.

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Work Flexible: Why Keyboard Trays Are Still Useful, Even if They’re Not Cool https://workriteergo.com/work-flexible-keyboard-trays-useful-cool/ Tue, 18 Feb 2020 09:00:37 +0000 http://workriteergo.com/?p=20804 Workflexible Why Keyboard Trays Are Still Useful, Eve [...]

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Workflexible

Why Keyboard Trays Are Still Useful, Even if They’re Not Cool

work-flexible-keyboard-tray

Adjustable keyboard trays are a great way to provide maximum ergonomic benefits and greater levels of comfort for any workforce. When used in conjunction with fixed height desks, or with sit stand desks featuring limited ranges of adjustability, a keyboard tray can improve the overall usability and ergonomic functionality of the entire workcenter. Workrite offers a broad selection of keyboard tray systems as well as individual keyboard platforms and keyboard arms, providing multiple solutions for virtually any application.

“They may not be cool, but keyboard trays are a great ergonomic solution.”

Keyboard trays are a classic office fixture and aren’t going anywhere anytime soon. They may not be cool, but they are a great ergonomic solution that allow users to properly align their arms, wrists, and hands while typing.

We’re always striving to make ergonomics “cool” to help people everywhere work better and more comfortably. We get that keyboard trays are not necessarily the coolest, but it’s important to note how they can be useful and why they’ve stuck around.

 

Add Ergonomics to Any Desk

Stuck with a fixed height desk that isn’t the right height for you to work comfortably? Can’t get your elbows at a 90 degree angle with your keyboard on top of the desk? Keyboard tray to the rescue! Keyboard trays turn a fixed height desk into an ergonomic workstation in an instant. Most fixed height desks are too tall for shorter people or too short for taller people. The adjustable keyboard arm allows people of different heights to use standard, fixed height desks by simply moving the keyboard tray up or down for better ergonomic positioning of the arms and wrists.

 

Fight Carpal Tunnel and Other Hand/Wrist Ailments

Proper ergonomic positioning of the arms and wrists will help fight carpal tunnel and other musculoskeletal disorders of the hands and wrists. If you’re constantly working with your arms reaching or bending, or wrists at a stand angle, you’ll eventually develop discomfort in your wrists and hands, which if unchecked, could turn into a serious issue. Keyboard trays help workers fight off these ailments by achieving and maintaining proper ergonomic positioning and the ability to change positions when fatigue strikes.

 

Fit For Anyone

From the shortest person to the tallest, an adjustable keyboard tray lets you put the keyboard right where it belongs so it fits better to your body. A keyboard positioned too high or low can cause problems for your arms, wrists, hands. This is often the case when working at a fixed height desk. A keyboard tray makes any old desk work for anyone, no matter their height.

 

Find the Right Angle

By angling the keyboard tray up or down, you can keep your wrists in a neutral position. If you lean back in your chair as you type, you may want to angle the keyboard tray up, If you lean forward, you may want to angle to keyboard tray down, However you angle it, keep your wrists in alignment with your elbows.

 

Different Types of Keyboard Trays

There are a variety of keyboard tray options with different levels of adjustability. The most basic keyboard tray has a compact design where the mouse and keyboard are on the same platform and the entire tray is mounted to a keyboard arm, allowing you to push the tray under the desk, or pull it forward, adjust up and down slightly, and tilt the tray. Others will have a separate mouse tray that can slide side to side, forward or back, allowing you to have the mouse in a different position than the rest of the keyboard tray. Some will even have two mouse trays—right and left—to quickly and easily accommodate different users without having to use tools to change the mouse tray position. Finally, you have your extended range keyboard tray systems, which can create a sit stand workstation without a whole new desk.

 

No matter what you choose, adding an adjustable keyboard tray to your desk can drastically improve the ergonomics of your workstation, reduce the risk of musculoskeletal disorders and fatigue, and help you work more comfortably. We get it; keyboard trays may not be cool, but they’re a quick and easy way to improve the ergonomics of any workspace!

 

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