Facts on Office Supply
You use them, need them and expect them to be there in abundance, but you may not be aware of some of the little-known facts on office supply materials. The legal definition asserts that office supplies include a wide range of materials used on a daily basis by businesses of every size. Besides the usual paper, pens, staplers and staples, file folders, tape and scissors, equipment such as printers, fax and copy machines are often included in this definition.
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Considerations
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Although technology has given us email, e-bills, and e-files in an effort to create “paperless” offices, paper and all the necessary accessories for keeping that paper organized are still found in abundance in most offices. Paper shredders are a common item found in today’s offices.
Types
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Different types of office supply stores have evolved over the years. The privately-owned corner stationery stores of yesteryear became the popular catalog supply houses and office superstores of today. The office supply superstores offer the most inexpensive and efficient option for purchasing a variety of supplies all in one location. Besides convenience, these stores offer substantial savings with competitive pricing by purchasing their products at bulk rates. The Internet also provides additional options for obtaining affordable office supplies.
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Green Supplies
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More businesses are choosing office supply stores that offer items made from recycled materials. Paper products of all types-file folders, envelopes and printer paper-are available in “green” options. More expensive office supplies like furniture are also being offered in refurbished and re-manufactured styles. Green office furniture can save new businesses up to 30 to 50 percent.
Significance
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Having the right office supplies on hand is important to keep an office functioning smoothly. Supplies that are used on a daily basis save time and maximize efficiency when kept in abundant supply and close at hand. You are best able to control your office supply expenses when a master list of necessary supplies is created and reviewed every few months. Some office supply vendors may be willing to offer discounts for items bought in bulk.
Fun Facts
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Inventor Samuel Slocum invented the stapler in the 19th century. Modern staplers are much lighter than their predecessors, but manufacturers have still not been able to completely eliminate the problem of staples jamming. Forerunner to the whiteboard was the cork bulletin board which has long been used to post office messages. Portugal is the world’s chief cork supplier. It is the bark of the Cork Oak tree that is used in the production of wine bottle stoppers, bulletin boards and other cork items. Charles Brooks was awarded a patent in 1893 for a gadget very similar to the modern single-hole punch. It was called the ticket punch.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit office supplies image by Tiffany McKinley from Fotolia.com
