Boosting Scientific Productivity: Embracing the Power of Multiple Monitors in the Lab

We recently doubled the number of screens at our pneumatic experimental workstation and it has more than doubled our productivity. 

Before we had to switch between our three programs (Grafana, NodeRED and Machine Edition) along side mountains of documentations whenever we wanted to make a change or see the effect of our changes. Usually that wouldn’t be a problem because split screening has been a basic feature of windows for the last two decades. 

The problem arises when we want to analyze multiple things at once or we are setting up for a new analysis project. Switching between multiple programs can cause windows to break the organization that is originally set up. Another problem is window scaling. Two apps can work on the same monitor but some things are hidden and makes it annoying having to always full screen an app just to access a simple button.

Using multiple monitors enabled us to dedicate one app to a single screen. On our second monitor we just leave Grafana or a document on at all times and it has been fantastic. On the main monitor we still fight for screen space but it is still much better. Usually programming a new analysis requires only one app at a time anyways.

As Paul Krugman would say “productivity isn’t everything, but, in the long run, it is almost everything”. That being said, let’s see how multiple monitors improved our productivity.

1. Enhanced Multitasking: With two monitors at my disposal, I found myself effortlessly juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. Whether cross-referencing data, writing reports, or analyzing results, the ability to view different applications side by side has streamlined our workflow and allowed for a seamless transition between various research-related activities.
2. Increased Screen Real Estate: The expanded screen real estate provided by the second monitor has been a game-changer. Complex datasets and intricate graphs that once required constant zooming and scrolling are now visible in their entirety. This has not only accelerated data analysis but also reduced eye strain, contributing to a more comfortable and efficient work environment.
3. Facilitated Collaboration: Collaboration is at the heart of scientific research. The addition of a second monitor has facilitated collaborative efforts within our team. Whether working on joint projects or sharing findings during team meetings, the ability to display information on one screen while keeping reference materials on another has fostered better communication and idea exchange.
4. Improved Research Document Management: Managing numerous research documents and literature is an integral part of scientific work. The second monitor has allowed me to keep reference materials open and accessible while simultaneously drafting reports or conducting experiments on the primary screen. This has significantly reduced the time spent searching for relevant information and improved overall document organization.
5. Efficient Data Visualization: In scientific research, visualizing data is crucial for drawing meaningful conclusions. The dual-monitor setup has allowed me to compare and contrast different data sets in real-time, leading to more insightful observations and faster decision-making. Whether working with complex detailed graphs, the enhanced visual clarity has been instrumental in our research processes.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the integration of a second monitor into our laboratory workstation has undeniably elevated our efficiency and productivity. From improved multitasking to streamlined collaboration and enhanced data visualization, the benefits are evident across various aspects of our scientific work. As we continue to embrace technological advancements, it is clear that the dual-monitor setup has become an indispensable tool for researchers striving to push the boundaries of scientific knowledge.