Ask HN:How do you optimize your environment for productivity?

5 points by ashleyreddy 15 years ago | 6 comments

I'm trying to figure out what type of office space I should get. How much do you think ambient natural light plays on your productivity for developers? I have Good keyboards, dual monitors, comfy chairs do you think plants are important? Just seeing if I'm missing anything.

ibrow 15 years ago |

Not productivity related, but the most important thing IMO that an office should have is a view of the outside. It is more than just something nice to look at. If you spend as much time as I do in front of your monitor(s) you need to regularly focus on something in the middle to far distance to reduce eye-strain. I've done a quick search on the internets to find this: http://www.pasadenaeye.com/faq/faq08/faq08_text.html

I've no idea if this is scientifically proven or anything, but looking away from the monitor every once in a while can't be bad for you.

malandrew 15 years ago | |

I read somewhere that this apparently is also one of the patterns in the book A Pattern Language by Christopher Alexander. I don't own a copy yet so I can't confirm this.

brudgers 15 years ago | | |

Workplaces and workspaces are the subject of patterns at each scale. Windows and light are also themes.

Patterns are listed here: http://www.patternlanguage.com/leveltwo/patternsframegreen.h...

The book is excellent, I can't vouch for membership on the website.

The biggest issue with computer monitors and light is of course, glare.

ibrow 15 years ago | | |

Looks like a great book - adding it to my wish list. Thanks

(link to book on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Pattern-Language-Buildings-Constructio... )

bnycum 15 years ago |

Have a clean desk is my #1. I work in a corner office with 4 windows, 2 in front of me and 2 to my right side, I do believe seeing outside has helped a lot compared to my last job where I had one window behind me. I also setup my whiteboard away from my desk so it causes me to get up. Keep all blinking lights (printers, routers, external HDDs, etc) hidden behind or beneath something. Other than that it's just good headphones and having lots of music.

tjpick 15 years ago |

get natural light, get fresh air, get quietness.