A workspace that’s untidy is going to generate stress and inhibit productivity. But getting everything organised isn’t always straightforward – though the investment in modern office furniture, and a little bit of practical change, can make all the difference. Let’s take a look at some of the steps we might take to restore some order to the chaos.
Colour-code the filing system
A filing system that’s completely monochrome will be more difficult to navigate than one that’s bristling with meaningful splotches of colour. Make sure that everyone using the office understands what the colours actually mean, and then get organising. You’ll experience meaningful productivity benefits in the long term.
Utilize your wall space
When it comes to storage, it’s easy to exploit space at ground level, but not so easy for those walls. The installation of floating shelves can provide a space to store miscellaneous items, while hooks can be used for the coats and jackets which might otherwise be draped on the back of a chair. Just make sure that you don’t create too much visual noise at eye-level.
Encourage a ‘clear your desk’ rule
Your staff are among your most effective tools in the fight against clutter. If everyone is in the habit of getting their desk clear at the end of every spell of work, and the untidy people are punished, then your workspace is that much likelier to be kept clear and presentable.
Organise your drawers
If every drawer and cupboard has a specific purpose, it’ll be that much easier to track down items that go missing. This means less wasted time, greater efficiency, and that all-important feeling that everything is in its right place.
Bookshelves and Filing Cabinets
Most offices should be looking to limit their paper documents in favour of digital ones. But in some cases, massive reams of paperwork are unavoidable. This might be especially the case in industries like law and sales. To store these items, make sure that you’ve invested in quality shelving units and cabinets, and that you have a suitable place in which to put them.
Invest in a high-quality chair
The majority your time in the office is going to be spent sitting down. Consequently, the investment in a high-quality chair is a sensible one. The best office chairs will be comfortable to sit in for long periods, and help to minimise postural problems (though to eliminate them entirely, you’ll still need to devote some time to exercise).
Think about the impact that your chair is going to have on the floor, too. If your office has a wood floor, then you might not have to worry as much as if you have a carpet. Look for a chair with castors that suit the surface it’s going to be placed on.