Ring Binders, We Love Those Darn Things!

Three-ring binders, people seem to love them; probably because they give us so many filing options. Since the late 1800’s, ring binders have been making their way into offices and schools with gusto.

In 1853, Henry T. Sission of Providence, R.I. filled the first patent for a ringed binder.  However, it wasn’t until several years later that the Chicago Binder and File Company had success with a ring binder.  Their first version only had two rings.  The three ring version, introduced a few years later, had much more success due to how efficiently it secured papers and keep them from ripping and getting soiled. 

Why are binders so popular?  Some of the major benefits they offer include:

·        Portability

·        Customization

·        Easy ability to review contents

·        They are lightweight

·        Allow for many organization styles with heading tabs and dividers

·        They stack easily

·        They shelve easily

Improvements have continued in the ring binder world, but our recent find from Cardinal Binder has us especially excited.  The FreeStand EasyOpen Binder from Cardinal offers many benefits including a one touch opening feature that the Arthritis Foundation commends for easy-of-use.

FreeStand EasyOpen Binder Features:

• Magnetic flap closures connect when closed to keep binder in a secure standing position
• Clear overlay holds custom title sheets
• No-pinch ring opens, closes and locks with one touch
• Ease-of-use commendation from the Arthritis Foundation
• Slant-D® rings hold 25% more than standard round rings
• Color-coded easy-pull finger hole on spine provides easy shelf removal  

To learn more about, or to purchase this great system contact Great River Office Products at www.greatriverofficeproducts.com.  Toll free 877-793-1135, or locally at 651-293-1135.

 

Folders, Folders Everywhere and Not One Is Clearly Marked

Does this sound like your filing system?  You’re not alone.  Many office filing systems leave a lot to be desired including some in our office!

However, one of the most important, but often one of the most neglected systems in an office is the paper filing system.  Even in today’s digital office, paper and paper files still have a place and making sure your system works well for you and others is important.

Recently, our operations manager and systems administrator, Jim, redid his filing system.  Even though Jim’s old system worked well for him, it was sometimes difficult for others to find things.  It’s important when setting up a filing system to note who all of the users will be of the files.  In Jim’s case, his files were often needed by our accounting and ordering departments.

To begin the project, Jim assigned a color to sets of file folders.  In his case file folders were grouped and color coded according to accounting items such as taxes, reports, invoices and receivables.  Each file was given an easy to read label so it is now simple to see, at a glance, what items are contained in what folders.  See the before and after shots below.

Smead’s new Viewables filing folder and tabs were used to create Jim’s new system.  Some of the benefits noted by Smead regarding Viewables include:

·        Customizable tabs with multiple fonts and custom colors

·        Custom color-coded labels may be created on your PC

·        The system helps to eliminate misfiled folders

·        Files are found faster

·        Your office will look and feel more organized

For Jim, the new filing system has increased productivity not just for him but for all of the staff using these files.  Jim notes, “Paperwork used to get misplace/filed before but now that it is all clearly marked and easy to read the misfiling has been considerably less.  Having very organized files makes my job easier to find and file the things I need to versus guessing where to put it.  The system looks more professional as well.  The best part though is removing the cluttered look.  The professional, uncluttered look makes filing almost fun now.”

For more information, or to order Smead Viewables click here.  Visit our website to learn more about Great River Office Products.

 

Before

 After