Featured article by Lora Young, Independent Technology Author
If you’re often busy in the workplace, you might need a bit of help improving how much you can produce each hour. Whether distractions are problems for you, or you just need a bit more general motivation, some of these apps and gadgets could be the solution!
We’re going to look at seven convenient gadgets that can improve your productivity in the workplace.
1. Portable chargers
Do you find that your phone keeps running out of battery on that busy commute? Is it getting in the way of important work conversations, or locking you down to the general area of an outlet for hours at a time? Try a portable charger. That way you never run out of battery juice at the wrong time. These chargers can work for both phones and laptops, ensuring that you’re always connected when you need to be.
2. Activity tracker
One way to make sure you’re really doing what you should be, is tracking it with an activity tracker. Something like FitBit works great if you have a job that involves a lot of walking but you can also get apps to track how much you’re doing in a normal office job. This can allow you to analyze your activity and work out where you’re struggling. You can then make the changes and work towards goals to make sure you’re producing at the level that you should be.
3. New laptop
Old laptops can slow you down. If you get a new laptop, you could be surprised by how much faster and easier they make it to do every day work tasks. The right travel laptop could make it easier to do work while you commute, making it even more easy to be productive. That’s because newer models are often more lightweight, faster and have longer battery times—all of which could add to your productivity levels.
4. Smart kettle
If you find yourself taking more and more time out of your work day to put the kettle on, either for yourself, other colleagues, or clients, a smart kettle could be for you. That way you can simply turn it on remotely with an app, and continue working until the kettle is boiled. It might only save you a few minutes every time, but that could soon add up over days and months.
5. App filter
Are you finding yourself distracted by games and other time-wasting apps on your phone or tablet? You can get filters to only allow work-based activities during the day, reducing distractions and helping you get your work done without interruption.
6. Standing desk
Research shows that the more you stand in the office, the better. While there’s still time to sit, if you can stand while working, you could produce more and stay healthier. The right standing desk solution could be a good purchase for your office.
7. Hydration monitor
If you aren’t getting enough water in the workplace, it could slow you down. Staying hydrated keeps concentration levels up and could help you accomplish more. A hydration monitor could help by letting you know when your levels are dropping and you need a drink.
