Organize for productivity

Wish you could be more productive in your office or do you just want to get out of there as soon as possible? The key to efficiency is having an office that works well for you. Read on for creating an effective and efficient office.

Keep it within arm's reach: Everything you need should be within arm’s reach and you should be able to get whatever you need in a moment’s notice. What you do in your office will determine the tools you need for organizing. Need a book? Have a bookshelf near your desk so that when it's time to retrieve it all you have to do is spin in your chair. Just use your office to pay bills? Keep checkbook, envelopes, stamps, pens and your "to be paid" pile in the same location for easy retrieval.

Common problem areas in an office include not enough or inconvenient storage, items without a home, and taking the time or motivation to get organized.

Office furniture arrangement – use an L or a U shape arrangement for your desk, file cabinets, and credenza, it gives you the maximum amount of continuous working space within arms reach. Leave about three feet of space behind the desk to get in and out of your chair and in front of the filing cabinets to be able to open the drawers easily.

Place your desk where you want it first and then your file cabinets, bookshelves, credenza or other office furniture around it. Just as good kitchen layout is around a work triangle, so too is your workspace. Desk, filing cabinet, bookcase (or computer cart – customize to your business) – the key is to get everything you need to be productive within arm’s reach.

Think about desk placement in relation to the windows and doors. A desk facing the door will allow you to see who’s walking by, leaving you in a better position for interaction with others. On the flip side, a desk positioned so that your back is to the door will minimize interruptions. A desk positioned perpendicular to the door leaves your office open and inviting to guests but since you aren’t facing the door, you are less likely to be distracted.

Whatever makes you the most comfortable and inspired will be what makes you the most productive. Inspired by the world around you? Put your desk in front of the window.

Get an ergonomic office chair – it’s worth the investment and your body will thank you. Also, leave about three feet of space behind your desk to get in and out of the chair with ease.

Have a really small office or just need extra storage space? Go vertical – put shelves on the wall above your desk or credenza for items you might need less often.

Just don’t like to spend time in the office? An organized office will get you in and out in the least amount of time possible – isn’t that in itself worth organizing for?

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