How to Organize an Office Most Efficiently
Organizing an office can seem like a daunting task. It can be difficult to know where to start, with all the work involved in organizing the layout and designing a system to deal with paperwork. Using a few simple steps, you can organize an efficient office that will get you out of clutter habits and allow you to do business while increasing office productivity and improving the office environment.
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Instructions
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Paperwork
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Eliminate paper in whatever way you can. Some contracts and legal documents need to be on paper, but most paperwork can be saved electronically as a PDF or document file. In addition, start emailing yourself notes instead of taking them down on scrap paper.
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2
Get a label maker. Use masking tape and a Sharpie to clearly label folders and everything else paperwise in the office.
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3
Forget file cabinets, which usually break and hide out-of-control files and paper clutter. Opt for heavy-duty clear plastic file storage bins instead. Make sure the bins have a top you can secure firmly and are stackable. Label the front of them with a label maker.
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If you have a lot of older files you need to keep but don't use, consider putting them in a climate-controlled storage unit. Depending on your location, a small storage unit can be an inexpensive way to get those old files out of your way.
Setup
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Consider the space you have. What needs to go into the office? What should be grouped together for efficiency?
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Draw out a plan for your office layout. Be sure to plan for walking pathways and cords that need to be plugged in to electronic equipment, such as computers and telephones.
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Choose containers that are the correct size for what you're keeping in them. They don't have to be decorative, but they should match for a look of neatness.
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Put your office supplies in clear, visible tubs with snap-on lids for quick, easy access, and always return them to the same place in the cabinet.
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Tips & Warnings
Always have extras of whatever office supplies you use in abundance. Clear containers are a bonus because you can see what's inside without going through them.
If one piece of paper gets out of place, it invites several more to join it in its disorganization. Stop office clutter before it starts.
