The Case for Dual-Screen Setups for Judges and Admins

Introduction

As digital tools become increasingly prevalent across diverse sectors, the role of computer setups in facilitating more efficient workflows continues to gain attention. In particular, event judges and administrative personnel—such as those operating during Quran competitions—can significantly benefit from adopting a dual-screen configuration. This setup is not merely a luxury; it can be a practical aid to accuracy, time management, data handling, and decision-making processes.

This article explores the functional advantages of using dual screens in administrative or judging roles, outlines common use cases, and considers the potential challenges along with possible mitigations. The findings are relevant not only for stakeholders in Quran-related competitions but for a wide range of similar contexts where real-time information processing and multi-application usage are critical.

Understanding Dual-Screen Setups

A dual-screen setup typically involves connecting two monitors to a single computer, allowing for extended desktop space. Users can drag applications, windows, or documents across both displays, which effectively multiplies their digital workspace. While some setups may involve laptops connected to an external monitor, others may involve desktop computers with two equally-sized monitors or one primary and one secondary display.

Key Components

• Primary Monitor: Usually displays the main user interface or primary tool, such as a live scoring system or timing software.
• Secondary Monitor: Often used for reference materials, communication platforms, documentation, or dashboards.

This configuration is particularly helpful in environments where professionals need to consult multiple streams of information without the interruption of switching between tabs or windows.

Advantages for Judges

Judging panels in Quran recitation or memorisation contests are typically responsible for evaluating performances based on a variety of criteria, such as accuracy, tajweed (pronunciation rules), fluency, and adherence to timing. A dual-screen setup can significantly support the flow of this work.

Simultaneous Display of Recitation and Scoring

One of the most practical applications of dual monitors is allowing the judge to view the live performance or text of the Quran on one screen while simultaneously inputting scores or comments into a software platform on the second screen. This avoids toggling between windows, which can disrupt concentration and increase the likelihood of mistakes.

For instance, a judge may:

• View a timer, audio stream, or video feed on the primary screen.
• View the scoring rubric or digital marking form on the secondary screen.

Access to Supporting Materials

Some competitions allow or require judges to consult reference materials, such as scoring criteria guides, rules documents, or previous marks. A dual-screen setup enables continual access to such documents without interrupting live marking tasks.

Error Reduction and Easier Review

With more screen space, judges can spot and correct errors promptly. For example, they may compare running scores across different rounds more easily, identify potential discrepancies in real time, or revisit a particular marking point without needing to print documents or manually switch between files.

Advantages for Administrators

Event administrators, whether onsite or remote, often manage complex logistical tasks, ranging from contestant scheduling and result collation to correspondence and contingency planning. The benefits of dual screens are even more pronounced in this context.

Enhanced Multitasking

Administrative roles frequently require simultaneous engagement with several software applications—such as spreadsheets, email clients, messaging platforms, and scheduling tools.

• One screen may show a real-time schedule, while the other handles contestant check-in data or the communication panel.
• For events conducted online, an administrator might use one screen for the video platform (e.g., Zoom), and the other for monitoring performance logs or report generation.

Improved Real-Time Communication

Administrators must often liaise with multiple parties during a live session—judges, technical staff, participants, and sometimes audience members. The ability to keep chat windows or messaging platforms open on a secondary monitor promotes faster response time and reduces the chance of missing urgent updates.

Moreover, screen-sharing becomes smoother. Administrators can mirror only one display to avoid exposing sensitive data, or simultaneously share informational content while continuing their own coordination in parallel.

Faster Data Entry and Report Compilation

Administrative tasks often involve entering, verifying, and exporting data under time constraints. Having one screen dedicated to data entry and another to source material or checking references enables a more accurate and streamlined process.

Considerations and Implementation

While dual-monitor setups offer clear benefits, implementation does require planning, especially when working in event locations with limited infrastructure.

Space and Equipment Requirements

Judges’ desks or administrative tables must be spacious enough to accommodate two screens. Laptops with flexible stands or compact external monitors can be useful in settings where desk space is limited. Docking stations may be necessary when connecting to older hardware.

Software Compatibility and Configuration

The operating system and event platforms must be compatible with dual-display modes. Ideally, users should be trained in extending displays (rather than mirroring) to make full use of the additional space. Split-screen features or built-in tiling utilities can also help manage screen real estate effectively.

Power and Connectivity

Venues should provide reliable access to multiple power outlets and account for the extra burden on power sockets. Using power strips with surge protection and HDMI or DisplayPort-compatible cables can improve setup safety and reliability. WiFi bandwidth is another important calculation, particularly when video feeds or cloud-based tools are involved.

Use Case Examples

National Quran Memorisation Contest (Onsite)

Judges sit in a row facing contestants. In a traditional setup, they switch between a paper rubric and looking at the contestant’s Mushaf on screen. In a dual-screen configuration, the scoring form is live on one side while the performance and countdown appear on the other. This eliminates paper handling and manual result tallying.

Online Regional Recitation Competition

Each judge participates remotely via a web-based platform. One monitor runs the video call. The second shows scoring forms linked to a central database. Administrators, at the same time, monitor a shared timetable on one display while managing contestant admission and WhatsApp coordination on the other.

Workshop or Training Mode

During a training session for new judges, trainers project from one screen while using the other to view notes and track participant engagement. Feedback forms and instructional rubrics are readily accessible without interrupting the display to trainees.

Potential Limitations and How to Address Them

• Cost: Dual-screen setups involve upfront investment in monitors and accessories. However, the productivity gains typically offset these costs, particularly when equipment is reused across events.
• Technical Skill Requirements: Not all users are familiar with dual-monitor configurations. Pre-event training or simple guides can help alleviate uncertainty.
• Portability Challenges: For mobile setups, light and smaller screens, such as portable USB-powered monitors, can provide a practical alternative without the bulk of traditional monitors.

Conclusion

Dual-screen setups offer tangible and strategic benefits for judges and administrators in contexts such as Quran competitions. They facilitate better multitasking, clearer information management, and minimise the disruption caused by switching between tasks or screens. With minimal planning and infrastructure investment, dual monitors can significantly improve efficiency, accuracy, and user satisfaction.

Although the setup may appear complex initially, especially for occasional users or temporary events, the long-term gains in clarity and workflow consistency make it worthwhile—and potentially transformative—for both judges and administrative teams.

If you need help with your Quran competition platform or marking tools, email info@qurancompetitions.tech.