Building a home office workstation that’s within your budget to be productive

The speech “Building a home office workstation that’s within your budget to be productive” was presented at the WeAreDevelopers World Congress 2023 in Berlin.

A few years ago, my team and I were interviewing a candidate for an engineering role over a video call and when the interview started, the first thing we noticed was how loud it was in the candidate’s room. It was one of those extremely hot summer days in Berlin and the window behind him was wide open, so we could hear all the loud traffic, ambulance cars, yelling children, it was loud. I politely asked the candidate to close the window. Now, technically, he did exactly what I asked for, he closed the window. Of a video call.

Building a home office workstation that’s within your budget to be productive

Why I was telling this short story is the exact reason I am doing my presentation – I believe the remote work is here to stay in one way or another to keep the employees happy by creating a better work-life balance. But we need to navigate through challenges of remote work.

First, I want to ask you, how many of you work from home? (Quite a lot!)

Alright, let’s bust that myth about working from home! People often believe remote work crushes productivity, but guess what? That’s just the granddaddy of all misconceptions!

Employers sometimes get all jittery, thinking their team is lazing around at home in pajamas, or sometimes even without pajamas. But hey, don’t let fear do the talking! The truth lies in the magical realm of real-life data! Prepare to be amazed! Drumroll, please! Working from home boosts productivity by 13% over 9 months! It’s like unlocking a superpower!

So, what’s the secret behind this productivity, you may ask? It’s all about that work-life balance and the smart home office workstation! Embrace the cozy vibes of your home sweet home, and boom, you’re in the productivity zone!

In recent years, the concept of remote work has become a reality for millions of individuals worldwide. With this shift, the need for a well-designed home office workstation has become paramount to maintain productivity, focus, and overall well-being. However, building a workstation doesn’t have to be an expensive adventure. Now, I would like to share some practical tips to help you create a productive home office on a budget.

1. Define your needs. We’re on a mission to discover what makes your home office tick. By understanding your requirements, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and invest in items that genuinely contribute to your productivity. Fun fact: a Stanford study found that walking boosts creative inspiration and can increase a person’s creative output by an average of 60%. So, maybe an under-desk treadmill could help you out?
2. Shop smart for furniture. A comfortable and ergonomic chair, or what I call “the throne of productivity” is essential for long hours of work. Look for second-hand options or budget-friendly ergonomic chairs that provide adequate support. When it comes to the desk, consider using a simple tabletop and adjustable legs instead of a costly pre-built desk. This DIY approach can save you a significant amount.
3. Organize and declutter. Say hello to your sidekicks: shelves, bins, and file organizers! They’re the secret weapons to keep your space tidy and clutter-free. And here’s the best part: they won’t break the bank! Saving money and staying productive? That’s a superhero combo right there! Remember, less is more! Another type of clutter is cable clutter. Repurposing household items and using cable sleeves and binder clips should become a new fashion statement for your wires.
4. Lighting matters. Proper lighting is crucial for productivity and your overall well-being. Natural light is the best option. If you’ve got a window nearby, it’s time to do the happy dance! Position that desk of yours right by that window! Embrace the magic of natural light flooding your workspace and boiling your creative juices!
5. Invest in yourself. Finally, remember that investing in yourself is the most important aspect of a productive home office. Practice self-discipline, set clear goals, and establish a daily routine. No matter how affordable your workstation is, your dedication and commitment to work will determine your success.

So, there you have it, folks! Working from home and building a home office workstation isn’t just a myth-busting adventure, it’s a journey to a happier, more productive universe! Now go forth and conquer the remote work like the productivity superhero you are!

Dennis Peld