Maximizing Efficiency and Comfort in the Modern Workplace: Accessories for a Hybrid Work Environment

Byron_Clarke

As businesses transition to hybrid environments, employees are learning to balance in-office and remote work. This has given employees greater autonomy over their schedules, has increased productivity, and has allowed for a better work-life balance. The evolution of work has been a big change for many, but with the right technology and accessories, companies and employees can create comfortable and productive workspaces.

What is hybrid work?

Hybrid work is when employees have both in-office and remote working capabilities. It involves elements of both traditional office and remote work. It allows employees the choice to work wherever they prefer and whenever they can be productive. These situations can range from one day a week or month in the office, to one day solely devoted to remote work each week or month.

Hybrid work is the new modern office, and it’s here to stay

Hybrid work allows companies flexibility with their teams, as they can manage team members in-house or remotely according to project needs and employee preferences. Some businesses have even cut down on office space to trim expenses. Employees have also shown they can still be productive and meet deadlines. Additionally, hybrid work reduces commute time for workers and helps create a safe working environment for everyone. Finally, hybrid work helps foster collaboration among teammates since everyone can engage face-to-face at least once a week or month, depending on the arrangement. These benefits make hybrid work an attractive option that is sure to remain popular in the future.

Accessories to help you succeed in a hybrid work environment

Working in a hybrid environment means taking the right accessories with you wherever you go. While costs vary, these can help productivity, organization, and comfort. Which accessories you need depends on your work-from-home (WFH) environment. Space limitations and distractions can impact your workflow. You may also want to consider other factors, such as attending virtual meetings, multitasking requirements, or even how much drive space you’ll need. Here is a list of items to consider and how they can fit your WFH scenario.

• Docking station: This accessory helps you easily connect and charge laptops or devices. You can also access a wide range of peripheral devices and multiple connected displays with a single connection to save space. 
• Docking or conferencing monitors: A docking monitor provides extended desktop space and better accessibility of peripherals for laptop or desktop users. Connect everything at once to keep things organized.  
• Ergonomic chairs: These are designed to provide comfort and support while sitting, promoting improved posture, reduced muscle strain, and less fatigue. 
• Extra monitor: Multitasking is likely a huge part of your job. If you have the space, an extra monitor helps organize your workflow and reduces flipping back and forth from a document or a website. If you have lots of space, an extra-wide monitor is recommended.  
• External storage: A device that offers additional capacity for data, providing users with increased flexibility and reliability for backup purposes as well as ease of file transfer.  
• HD webcam: If video conferences are important to your job or if you want a variety of angles, it might be worth looking into. 
• Laptop computer: Save space and gain portability with a laptop. The go-to device if you’re in a small, multi-use, or public space. Of course, there are a lot of options out there, so make sure you find one that’s right for you.  
• Multi-use chargers: Most devices need to be charged at least once a day. Carrying multiple chargers wastes space and can be overbearing. An all-in-one charger can eliminate stress and won’t strain your budget. 
• Noise-canceling headphones or headset: Keep distractions to a minimum and ensure your voice is clear for conference calls. 
• Portable monitor: These ​​offer great convenience and portability, allowing users to take their displays with them wherever they go. Combined with a laptop, smaller portable monitors or even tablets can also allow for a dual-screen setup, taking advantage of limited space. 
• Standing desks: A tool that provides users with an ergonomic work setup that can prevent fatigue, improve posture, and reduce the risk of developing related health issues caused by prolonged sitting. As an extra benefit, they can save space by eliminating the need for a chair. 
• Travel hubs: Save space by eliminating the need to carry multiple adaptors or docks. 
• VR headsets: Using a VR headset in a home office provides an immersive experience that can help to increase concentration, reduce stress, and enable users to explore innovative methods of working productively in a digital space. 
• Wi-Fi router/Wi-Fi extenders: Improve your connection speeds with a quality Wi-Fi router or extender. Especially if your office is on a different floor than your router. 
• Wireless keyboards and mice: These devices offer multiple benefits and can be useful in a range of setups. Benefits include portability, fewer wires, and comfort. Wireless keyboards and mice also allow you to be more creative with your setup.

Work-from-home scenarios and the accessories you need

Small spaces 

Working from home can be challenging when you have a small living space. However, creating an ideal workspace is still possible with a little effort and creativity. Some people have even repurposed closets. First, start with organizing your workstation by minimizing clutter. Once you’ve found a space that works and have it organized, it’s time to look for the right tools to maximize space and make it yours.

• Docking or conferencing monitors 
• Docking station 
• Laptop computer 
• Standing desk 
• Wireless keyboard and mouse

Large spaces 

If you're lucky enough to have a dedicated office, it's easy to create a scenario that is comfortable and fits your needs. If possible, use a separate room that can be closed off for some privacy and a place that can break up your work and leisure time. Tailor your space to your individual preferences and create the ideal work environment.

• Conferencing monitor 
• Ergonomic chair 
• Extra monitor(s) 
• HD webcam 
• VR headset 
• Wi-Fi extender 
• Wireless keyboard and mouse

Shared or multi-use space 

These days, more people are sharing a workspace with family or roommates. To make sure everyone is comfortable in the shared environment, it's important to determine what type of setup works best for everyone involved. Set boundaries for the space and be sure to communicate expectations so that everyone is on the same page. Furthermore, this space might also be multi-use. Whether it’s a bedroom, a living room, or a kitchen, you’ll want to consider what activities will take place in that space and how often you’ll need to change the set-up. Portability is key in this scenario, as the space may change multiple times per week or even throughout the day.

• Docking station 
• Noise-canceling headphones or headsets 
• Laptop computer 
• Portable monitor 
• Wireless keyboard and mouse

Public spaces 

Working in public spaces can be a great way to stay creative, and people are certainly taking advantage of it. For some, it’s the bustling energy of a café or the serenity of a nearby park, while others prefer the amenities of a co-working space. Like other shared spaces, portability is key for working in these WFH environments. However, you’ll also find carrying your equipment around can be taxing, so you’ll want to make good use of smaller or even multi-use accessories.

• External storage devices  
• Laptop computer 
• Multi-use chargers 
• Noise-canceling headphones or headsets 
• Portable monitor 
• Travel hubs 

Get started on your ideal WFH setup 

Hybrid work environments require a range of home office essentials to maximize productivity and comfort. No matter your hybrid scenario, it’s worth looking into accessories that might help your workflow. Whether it’s a standing desk, an ergonomic chair, portable monitors, or a VR headset, get everything you need to work efficiently and comfortably at the office or remotely.

*The opinions reflected in this article are the sole opinions of the author and do not reflect any official positions or claims by Acer Inc.

 About Byron Clarke: Byron is a contributing writer for Acer Corner. As a freelance copy and content writer, he writes about business, technology, and gaming. He is passionate about reading, writing, and teaching. Most days, he spends his time helping marketing teams find creative ways to reach audiences and small businesses find strategic advantages.