For many, a new year provides a clean slate and a chance to get everything back on track. When it comes to work, simply decluttering the office can be the change needed to boost performance for the months ahead.
Research proves that there are big benefits to decluttering. According to the University of Columbia, an organised workspace can lift productivity by 167 per cent.
Further studies also reveal that the average person wastes up to 76 hours a year searching for files and stationary on a messy desk – nearly two whole regular work weeks.
And, not only are chaotic workspaces a hindrance to efficiency there’s also a legitimate affliction called Irritable Desk Syndrome that causes intense stress and chronic pain.
Davell have been helping people with storage solutions since 1946, so here are our tips for a healthy and tidy work space:
Turn horizontal into vertical
Removing excess clutter from workspaces is imperative for prolonged concentration. That means sorting through any piles of papers, magazines, etc. that have accumulated desk and/or surrounding workspace. Try using vertical filing shelving systems or tambour door cabinets for easy access to papers and files when needed and move older files and materials into storage outside of the immediate workspace, digitise them or throw them out.
Reorganise desk space
With those piles now removed from the desk space it’s time to think about eliminating other items like sticky tape, staplers and paper clips and storing them in a draw or cupboard that’s handy to access. Using an in and out tray will help with organisation, but keeping on top of the out tray is important.
Encourage personalisation
In a big office decorating work spaces with personal items is a great idea. But rather than cluttering up the desk use a pin board and hang personal photos, inspirational quotes, to do lists and more without invading the new clean desk space.
Colour comes into play
Different colours influence the mood of a work space and thought should go into the environment you wish to update or create. Our cabinets, bookcases and shelving systems come in a wide variety of colours and finishes that complement all environments.
Add light, flowers or greenery
Now that the work space is decluttered it’s time to ensure that the lighting in the office will encourage productivity. This is important as studies have shown that in many work spaces the lighting is twice as bright as it needs to be!
Placing flowers or plants around the office is also a brilliant way to add some colour to the environment and they are a fantastic mood-booster.
How we can help
At Davell, we have storage needs covered to help our clients declutter and create a productive and pleasant work space. We can design, manufacture and install state-of-the art shelving systems, cabinets, storage units and lockers in a wide variety of sizes, colours and requirements.
We also offer personalised storage units, a great way for employees to keep their goods secured during the day.
Contact us today to find out more.