Laptops are getting smaller and thinner, but the amount of available screen real estate shrinks in tandem. Think about a typical usage scenario: A worker may be viewing an Excel spreadsheet, while their e-mail client, Web browser, IM application, and Windows Explorer windows are running in the background. To get from one to another requires switching active windows and taking the focus away from critical work. Likewise, a worker who is revising a document may need to switch among the original and new versions. Switching windows makes this a frustrating and time-consuming process.

Today I look back at my experiences with increasing my onscreen display real estate and talk about how today's USB powered screens can really give your productivity, and sanity, a boost.