Trading desk buying guide
How do you create the ideal trading desk setup? Trading is an unpredictable and stressful job that demands fortitude and resilience. A well designed, ergonomic dealing desk helps you perform at your best.
A comfortable workstation counters the effects of stress. It promotes focus, helping you make critical decisions. In this guide, we cover the essential components of a quality trader desk setup.
How are trading desks different to office desks?
The nature of a trader's work means that trading desks differ from regular office desks. They need to withstand long hours of use and integrate customised IT equipment. A trading desk usually supports multiple PCs with large monitors in a tiered arrangement. Because of this, it needs a special monitor mounting system to support extra screens.
Enhanced cable management and ventilation systems are also needed, along with extra power and data outlets.
Unlike office desks, an investment banking desk is usually customised and bespoke. This is to accommodate unique IT and equipment needs. Colour and desktop finish are also designed according to client requirements.
A trading floor desk will usually include the following features:
User controlled sit-stand height adjustability
Full cable management integrated into the trading desk
Power and data outlets
Support for multiple tiered monitors
Ventilation systems
Storage space for PCs and equipment
Quick connect plugs and USB ports
What are your IT hardware storage needs?
You'll need to consider your IT and tech requirements when choosing the best trading desk. Computers have shrunk in size over the years, but storage and cable management are still important.
PCs are contained within enclosures beneath the trading desk. It's essential to consider the type and number of computers that you'll be using. The PC housing can be customised and manufactured in a variety of designs. It can also be dynamic and move with a height adjustable desktop, or expandable catering for ‘day two’ IT needs.
A day trading desk will usually house multiple PCs and monitors. These need a robust cable management system. A tangled mess of cables beneath your desk can get in your way and look unsightly.
Cable storage has to be accessible to make adjustments simple. A range of bespoke designs such as sliding desktops give access to the cable tray and below desktop power. Cable management chains also enable tidy cable routes from pc trolleys to pc housing and desktops.
Electric Height Adjustable Trading Desk
A look at trading desk ergonomics
Traders need to work under extreme pressure at times and be quick thinking. Often their hours are long. A comfortable and safe working setup will help with focus and productivity. A non ergonomic workspace puts users at risk of repetitive strain injuries. Chronic neck and back pain can also be an issue. If you’re working long hours in a high pressure environment you need to invest in equipment that will help your wellbeing and focus.
Why does a trading desk need to be height adjustable?
Studies show that sitting for long periods is bad for us. From blood pressure to back issues sitting for too long affects our bodies in multiple ways.
A sit stand trading desk creates a healthier work environment by allowing you to stand for some of your working day. The desktop can change from seated to standing height with the press of a button.
Height adjustable desks allow you to change posture without interrupting workflow. They're also adjustable for different heights and body shapes. The benefits of a standing desk are:
Reduced neck and back pain - Hunching over a desk puts a strain on your neck, shoulders and back. Eventually, you’ll get aches and pains which may need medical attention. A sit stand trading desk allows you to adopt a healthier posture for part of the day taking the strain off your upper body.
Lower risk of obesity - Studies show that fat burning enzymes shut down while we’re sitting. This can cause us to retain fat and have a slower metabolic rate. Standing helps burn extra calories each day, allowing you to maintain a healthy weight.
Feel more alert, task driven and positive - Better posture and circulation will make you feel happier, more refreshed and able to focus. Tasks are done faster, and you can think of creative solutions when problems arise.
Reduced stress - Better circulation, posture and metabolism all contribute to a healthier frame of mind. Levels of anxiety are lowered. A sedentary lifestyle is a risk factor for anxiety and depression. Changing to a standing posture for some of the day can help boost your mood.
An ergonomic chair is essential
Complement and enhance your trading desk setup with an ergonomic chair. This is a must to prevent fatigue and stay focused. It allows a healthier posture with better concentration and productivity. Whatever your body shape, an ergonomic chair can be adjusted to fit. It helps you maintain a variety of healthy sitting positions.
A truly ergonomic chair should always provide a high level of support for your back. The seat height and angle should adjust to suit any body type. A headrest is also important. It supports your head when typing and can also ease neck strain when looking up at screens.
A good chair will prevent aches and strains. An enhanced level of comfort helps you feel physically and mentally alert. All important for making critical decisions and trading efficiently.
Interstuhl Airpad chair
Free up desk space with a monitor arm
With 4 to 8 screens on an average dealing room desk choosing the right monitor support setup is critical. You’ll need one that guarantees a perfect ergonomic viewing angle. This is important for traders viewing multiple screens for many hours. If you’re straining your eyes to see the screen, you might start developing neck pain.
SmartArm Monitor mounting system
The monitor arm should allow you to raise your monitor to the perfect position for sitting or standing working. It should free up some space on your trading desk too.
A post mounted monitor arm is ideal for a trading desk that has multiple tiers of screens. It offers complete flexibility, allowing for straightforward monitor removal and fine height adjustment. The monitor can be positioned in either landscape or portrait orientation. Monitor configurations can also be easily changed. Extensions can be added without disrupting existing monitors.
Technology Links Desktop Power Unit
For increased comfort, a desktop connectivity unit incorporating power, data, usbs etc is also a useful piece of equipment. It sits on top of your desk so no more awkward leaning under your desk to plug in your tech.
Making those big wins is easier when you have the perfect trading desk setup. At Technology Desking we create tailored solutions for your unique requirements. Our core principles are ergonomic design and efficient technology management. Take a look at our products here