Some families have one computer for financial reasons, space concerns, or sufficient computer time for each family member. Trying to decide if only one computer can be confusing so review the folling information to decide if one home computer is enough for your family.
Nature of Your Work
Determine if you have a time sensitive busines/job. Jobs such as Medical Transcriptionist, Daily News Journalists, and Travel Customer Service Representatives need a separate computer. You will be updating files, researching, and reviewing data throughout the day and it may become uncomfortable to keep asking your family to stop homework assignments or games. On the other hand, jobs such as Technical Writer, Online Researcher, or Proofreaders can maintain greater flexibility since the work duties can be performed in the early morning or late evening when the family is sleep.
Sensitive data such as Human Resources Coordinator and Financial Planners deal with information such as social security numbers, incorme statements, and credit reports so only the correct person should have access to this information.
Willingness to Change Work Schedules
A writer may have a more flexible schedule but you must decide if you want to work early mornings, late evenings, and occasional weekends to perform your job. Resentment can happen if you feel that your family is taking advantage of your work flexibility.
Also, it makes a difference if you are a telecommuter or you freelancer. A telecommuter may have a defined set of core hours where he/she must be available to discuss projects with your boss and/or clients. However, a freelancer has the option of rearranging assignments as long as the work deadline is met.
Control Issues
You may want to have a separate computer if you want the greatest amount of control for computer use. You can decide to work for 2 hours, take a 30 minute break, and return for several hours of non-stop work. Work-related information can be kept on your desk/work area without worrying if someone may touch your work.
As an electrical engineer or land designer, you can spread out your graphs and forms and leave the information for a few days. Likewise, a e-commerce store owner may spend excessive hours updating product descriptions, ordering office supplies, and reviewing web statistics for marketing options.
The ability to have more than one computer may not be an option for everyone. Howver, it is important to review your options before making a major decision.
