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	Office And Work Place Organizing

	by Jessica Crouch

The principles of organizing never really change, but sometimes you need relevant EXAMPLES to jumpstart a project or see the forest through the trees. Here are some useful examples of workplace organizing solutions that you can try yourself.

THE BIG PICTURE

How and where do you do what you do? This, in addition to space and other constraints, will largely determine your WORKFLOW and general office SETUP. If you assemble, you want all components close at hand. If you ship, you may want final packaging close to the loading area. If you provide an in-store service, you want to arrange steps in order of occurrence with room for necessary tools and equipment. If you have a large paper inflow, you want to have a sorting area close to the point of entry. Once you determine how and where to organize work processes, you can organize the items and supplies within each area.

YOUR WORKSTATION

The area that may impact us the most is our DESK. Let’s look at several organizing tips to tackle the chaos that often stares back at us from our desk. You want to reserve desk space for often-used items so you can find a balance between searching and storing everything on your desk. Straighten your desk at the end of each day and especially each week so you are in a better position to start working FRESH each morning. Have a master to-do list for each day at your desk so you do not have to remember everything and you know your direction for the day. Use a variety of containers to organize office supplies, paper clips, pens, papers, etc. on top of and inside your desk. Empty your workspace of everything but the project you are working on to cut down on distractions. Does this sound easier said than done? You may want a co-worker or someone else with an outside perspective (i.e. an organizer) to help keep you focused and generate ideas.

YOUR PAPERWORK

Now how about those FILES? Do you color code? I always find it easier to search through just the red folders than the whole file drawer. Eliminate duplicates whenever possible especially since technology makes it so easy to store information or find it quickly on the internet. Use accordion file folders to keep small papers from falling out. Create a list of files or label file cabinets to cut down on search time. Put regularly used files within arms reach to increase your efficiency and decrease your frustration. Go through files (paper and computer) and PURGE at least yearly. This last tip begs the question of what to keep. I recommend consulting with a couple trusted sources (i.e. financial advisor, accountant, etc.), creating a system based on their advice, and sticking to it. Do your files sound like a daunting task? Ask a buddy (friend or professional) to assist.

GETTING SOME ASSISTANCE

Did you find some tips that may help in your work place? Do you dread the idea of implementing these ideas? Do you wonder where you will find the time to tackle work place organization? Sometimes all you need is a fresh set of eyes and an extra pair of hands. Don't be afraid to ask for HELP!

Contact Jessica Crouch at or 319-504-6689 at Organized For You! for your FREE consultation. You may visit her website at home.mchsi.com/~organizedforyou. Remember, getting it done with help is better than not getting it done at all. With a little bit of organization, every day can be like "a day at the beach¨.

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