DESK Checklist

Consider your work demands and personal style when choosing a desk. Ask these five questions.

1. WHAT WILL YOU USE THE DESK FOR? This may seem simple, but it’s the most important question. Are you someone who works in a creative genre with paints, pencils and paper? Do you need to leave your work out from day to day, or can you have a smaller desk where you put away your items at the end of each work day?

2. WILL THERE BE MULTIPLE USERS AT THE DESK? If so, you might need multiple spots to sit, or if you won’t have more than one user at once, keep a drawer or cubby for each person. For desks with multiple users, also consider how to keep down the clutter so transitions don’t include too much clean up.

3. WHAT WILL YOU KEEP ON YOUR DESK SURFACE? Is it a desktop computer with two monitors or a laptop? Do you need space for a landline phone or scanner? Measure all these items to make sure the desk will have enough space.

4. WHICH DIRECTION WILL THE DESK FACE? Consider the positioning of your desk so you don’t have to deal with glare from a window on your laptop screen or monitor.

5. DO YOU HAVE THE RIGHT ERGONOMICS? If you have neck and shoulder problems, make sure your desk setup includes the monitor or screen at eye level, and a desk with a stand up option might be a good idea.