What Are the Disadvantages of Using a Filing Cabinet?

Filing cabinets are generally used to organize a vast array of written documentation. While they can aid in organization when used properly, they can also sometimes be responsible for generating disarray in an office space.

Functions

The filing cabinet is responsible for storing documentation in an organized manner. But in many instances, files are haphazardly stuffed into the drawers, creating confusion and disorganization as well as an unsightly mess.

Size

Filing cabinets range from small, two-drawer versions to larger five-, six- and seven-drawer varieties. But they take up a great deal of space, which is a huge disadvantage of having one in an office.

Considerations

Filing cabinets are best used by people who are super organized. Otherwise, smaller and more compact organizers such as desk filers and storage bins should be used for filing purposes.

Potential

While filing cabinets can lend themselves to extreme disorganization, they can also be a reliable way to organize files. From labeling folders and placing them in order to designating certain drawers for certain files, filing cabinets have the potential to be a great furniture addition to an office space.

Warning

You can easily lose files among the many papers stuffed into a filing cabinet. Therefore, if you plan to invest in one, be sure you only file what fits and include some kind of dating system on your files so you know how old they are.

References

• Organize Your Filing Cabinet