How to Make Efficient Use of Metal Storage Cabinets in the Workplace
Companies may not actively push employees to keep the workplace neat and organised as other work-related operations might take priority. However, this is a dangerous practice as disorganisation can cost businesses heavily, both in terms of wasted time and wasted resources (Scuderi, 2012 ¹). In fact, employees might be spending a lot of time trying to find documents and office supplies that have been left lying around the workplace. In order to keep the workplace organised and uncluttered, it is important to periodically clear items from desks, sort through them and discard those that are not needed anymore. As well as clearing desks, proper storage solutions are required to address different needs in the workplace. Using metal storage cabinets and shelving in an efficient manner can help companies to optimise their workflow and save on time and resources. The following are three main factors to consider where office storage solutions are concerned:
Different Storage Solutions
Storage options such as drawers, cupboards, shelves and filing cabinets are available in different builds and materials. What companies need to consider is the different storage solutions they require according to their specific needs and storage demands. It is important to plan the budget for storage solutions along with furniture and equipment requirements, particularly when setting up new office spaces. This can help companies purchase items with an overall cohesiveness where design and function are concerned.
Conserving Available Space
Conserving on physical space can be a necessity for companies that have smaller workspaces. In order to avoid interiors from looking cramped and uncomfortable, businesses could consider storage fixtures that can be attached to walls. For example, instead of a separate broom closet, a small storage cabinet could be used for storing tools, cleaning supplies, etc. This could help save on space and at the same time ensure supplies are stored safely.
Optimal Use of Systems
Merely having various cabinets and shelves in place is not enough to keep offices neat and organised. Businesses must enforce appropriate filing systems and train employees to maintain files and folders in an organised manner that ensures they are easy to retrieve. For example, ensuring all workbenches and desks are cleared of paperwork and stationery at the end of each day or shift can prevent items from piling up and cluttering offices (Taylor, n.d. ²). The key is to motivate employees to take a keen interest in making use of storage systems in an optimal manner. For different options in shelving solutions and storage cabinets in UK, companies can get in touch with AJ Products.
Sources
- Scuderi, R. (2012) "21 Tips to Organize Your Office and Get More Done" LifeHack [Online] available from http://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/21-tips-to-organize-your-office-and-get-more-done.html [accessed November 2016]
- Taylor, J. (n.d.) "25 Office Organizing Tips" Business Know-How [Online] available from http://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/getorg.htm [accessed November 2016]