Archive for December, 2008
The Posture Minder
December 5th, 2008 | Author: Craig
How’s this for clever thinking.
It’s called Posture Minder and basically it is a piece of software that works in conjunction with a web cam to warn you of when you are sitting in a unhealthy position while at your computer!
I’m the first to agree that computers are great, if it wasn’t for my laptop our back account would look a lot scarier, but of course spending hours of your day does nothing for your physical wellbeing, particularly when you continually have bad posture. I have to admit that my kneeling chair goes a long way in helping me to keep the correct posture but too many times I have caught myself slouching and usually it’s only after I have noticed the aches and pains in my back go past that semi-comfortable level.
That is where the Posture Minder would be an absolute godsend. When the software picks up that you are not maintaining correct posture (via the webcam) it triggers a warning that comes up on your screen telling you that you better return to a good posture position before the aches and pains set in.
The professional edition of the software also has a feature that reminds you it is time to take a break from your computer and it also has a handy ‘hydration tracker’ to keep track of your fluid levels. The software will also work without a webcam by providing regular posture ‘reminders’ and advice on good posture and working practices and simple stretch exercises to release tension and reduce fatigue.
Particularly with the number of computer-related work injuries I can see that a product like this would not only benefit the individual but also be invaluable in an office type environment where there are many people spending the majority of their day at the keyboard. From what I have seen most businesses have been slow in adopting ergonomic office furniture for their workers, maybe due to the cost I don’t know but at least with this simple and low cost alternative to a complete office refit I’m sure you would have little trouble convincing your boss that it is a good thing.
Speaking of cost, and this really blew me out of the water, the Posture Minder is available in either the Business/Professional Edition or Home Edition and you can trial either version for 30 days for free. After the trial period the software will set you back £29.99 (around $40 USD) for the Home edition and £59.98 (around $85 USD) for the Business/Professional edition, that’s it! The software comes as either a download straight to your computer or you can have it sent out on CD if you desire for £5 extra and it is suitable for both PC’s and Laptops. Don’t have a webcam? No problem they also have software/webcam packages available at good rates.
I think this idea is simply brilliant (in fact you can read about the awards that it has already received on the website) and as soon as I can locate my missing-in-action web cam I’ll post a complete review of the software. In the meantime you can see for yourself what a great little package this by visiting THE POSTURE MINDER WEBSITE.
Take Care,
Craig
