The Overall Look

Pros:  Some of the most cutting-edge designers in office furniture and computer accessories are working in the ergonomic medium.  Many individuals look at the eye-popping design of a cool new chair or keyboard and are shocked to learn that, “wow, it’s comfortable too!”

Cons:  While many ergonomic products are as anonymous as a face in the crowd, some are just a little, how do we put this, weird.

The Price

Pros:   Answering the demands of a public that spends more time than ever at the office, or in front of their computers, furniture and computer companies have added ergonomic design to even their most basic products.

Cons:  Many high-end ergonomic products are still out of the financial reach of many consumers.  Some office furniture made by top designers is hand-crafted and created in a very limited run – both driving up the price of the units considerably.

The Chairs

Pros:  Ergonomic office chairs can provide a level of comfort that goes above and beyond that found in standard chairs.  Most ergonomically designed chairs feature adjustable arms rests, enriched back support and customizable height adjustments.  Taken together, they help the individual maintain good health while working at the computer or desk for long hours.

Cons:  Some ergonomic office chairs do not fit perfectly into existing office furniture arrangements.  Some of these chairs might not fit under a desk properly, or sport a look that is wildly different from the rest of the office décor.

The Keyboards

Pros:  Computer keyboard design is one area when ergonomics have made significant inroads over the past several years.  Designers have created keyboards that “break the rules”, but all the while provide additional wrist support and a great deterrent against carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive stress disorders.

Cons:  Those of us who spent a tremendous amount of time on our computers have a tendency to become creatures of habit.  That sometimes makes it difficult to make changes to the way we input information into our computer.  A keyboard with a revolutionary ergonomic design may work well on paper, but if the individual cannot adapt to using a QWERTY touch pad, split in two and raised 3 inches off the desk, then all the advances will have gone for naught.

The monitors

Pros:  Many new computers now come standard with ergonomically-sound monitor screens that reduce glare – thus helping the individual avoid eye strain and other health programs.  These screens give the individual more freedom as to where they move their computers, since direct overhead lighting and natural sunlight become less of an issue.

Cons:  Like keyboards, many individuals are particular about their computers, specifically, the way the information is presented on screen.  Some anti-glare monitors may feature too much tint or alter the coloration of the images from the Internet.  While that may seem like an insignificant matter, people spend hours on the computer every day – so even the smallest changes to routine can cause a drop in productivity, or a rise in discomfort.