Two monitors are better than one
Two monitors are better than one
Microsoft has a nice article espousing the virtues of a dual monitor set-up. I have used this before I switched to a 24″ widescreen format LCD which serves the same 
purposes. Take a look and see what you think. Productivity gains make it worth the investment.
You can never have enough screen space, especially when organizing and working on your digital pictures. Instead of buying a larger monitor, if you’re using Windows XP, you can buy an inexpensive second monitor and connect it to your computer—instantly doubling your desktop space. Flat panel LCD monitors look great and will save room on your desk; CRT monitors also work well and can be less expensive.
The New York Times sings the praises of expanding your screen real estate across two monitors, using two video cards or an upgraded card with two outputs:
“Survey after survey shows that whether you measure your productivity in facts researched, alien spaceships vaporized, or articles written, adding an extra monitor will give your output a considerable boost — 20 percent to 30 percent, according to a survey by Jon Peddie Research”Â
Others have reported simialr findings such as:
“Recently many businesses have started using a dual-monitor setup for their employees in order to increase productivity. Many studies claim that having a dual monitor setup can increase productivity in the workplace by 20%-50%. By using two monitors the available screen area for running applications is effectively doubled which creates all kinds of benefits.”
Which ever route you decide to go, I suggest the dual monitor or very large format monitor. You will find the experience worthwhile.