When it comes to graphic designers, we’re sometimes surprised by the lack of tech-capability that other professionals come with. What we mean is, for a group of people that spend most of their working hours behind a computer, some designers can be surprisingly thick where technological details are concerned. If you’re in that latter category, or  simply curious, we’ve compiled a few top tech buys that will radically improve your workflow and the way you do business.

  1. Buy a Second Monitor: If you’re still only using one monitor to design with, we’re going to have to insist that you cut that out right now. Why? Well, for a number of reasons. First and foremost, designing with only one monitor is a great way to keep all your windows bunched up and busied where they sit. Rather, using a second monitor opens up a whole new patch of real estate for items like your email, your calendar, that second half of the design, or even just the ye olden Facebook page. Having that extra room is an incredible experience, and once you’ve gone bi-monitored, you won’t be going back.
  2. Get a Tablet: Seriously, we don’t know how many times we’ve suggest this to other designers. It may seem like a no-brainer to us, but if you don’t own or don’t use a pen tablet to draw with, then you’re really selling yourself short. With a tablet, you can create textures and effects that simply aren’t possible with a point-and-click mouse. There’s no way we could produce some of the graphics we do without our beloved Bamboo number, and if you’re feeling trapped in a digital world, such a device is the perfect means out. Don’t take our word for it, though. These $60 wonders can open new windows, expand your horizons, and—most importantly—rock your clients’ socks off.
  3. Consider a Mac: We could rail on about this, but we simply won’t. If you haven’t considered using an Apple computer for the increased workflow and general knickknacks, we really do suggest you give it some thought. They’re popular in the business for a reason, we promise.