• A home office must have the proper tools in order to be useful.at home office image by Pix by Marti from Fotolia.com
  
  A home office can be used for business or personal use, or it can be used as a place to study. No matter what its use, there are things you will need in order for the office to be functional. Having the proper tools will allow a business to thrive. The same can be said for an office used for personal use or a study.
  
  

The Computer

• The computer is one of the most important components of a home office, though all of the components can take up a lot of space. A laptop can help with space issues, as can a multi-use printer. This type of printer generally combines a printer with a copy machine and a scanner. It may also have fax capabilities. Not only will these save space, but they will also save money on office equipment.
  
  The desktop or laptop computer should have speakers, which will allow you to be more successful if you have a website. They are used to edit audio recordings that you create before uploading them to the site, or when you are in an online conference and need to hear what others are discussing. Also, a webcam can be useful for teleconferencing and for creating videos, which you can use to promote your business, if you have one.
  
  

Telephone

• A telephone is another necessity. By using a wireless Internet connection, you can be online and on the phone at the same time. This saves time. A phone with an intercom is helpful, in case you have to talk with someone within the home. Time is saved with this feature because there is no running back and forth between rooms.
  
  If wireless Internet is not possible, then a cell phone designated for business use will work.
  
  

Other Tools

• There are many smaller tools that will be useful in the home office as well. A calculator will come in handy for those working with numbers.
  
  Items such as a pencil sharpener or a stapler are also necessary. A staple remover and a letter opener are also helpful. A bulletin or dry erase board will be useful when planning out projects, and a paper shredder allows you to dispose of information that others should not be privy to.
  
  Shelves and file cabinets should be used to organize papers and files in the office area. Letter trays kept on the desk are also useful for organizing paperwork. Magazine organizers help to keep things organized by grouping like items together.