Office supplies can get expensive, so the supplies manager also acts as a gatekeeper to limit access to the area.
If you’re short on space, a large shelf, storage closet, or unused office will do the trick. [3] X Research source You can even use drawers with dividers that expand to fit their width and length. [4] X Expert Source Caitlin JaymesCloset Organizer & Fashion Stylist Expert Interview. 16 December 2019. Divide the drawers into as many segments as you want and keep different items separately. [5] X Expert Source Caitlin JaymesCloset Organizer & Fashion Stylist Expert Interview. 16 December 2019.
For example, put frequently-needed supplies at eye level for easy access. Items like toners and printers can go on higher shelves since you won’t need to get them that often. [8] X Expert Source Caitlin JaymesCloset Organizer & Fashion Stylist Expert Interview. 16 December 2019. If you have a lot of supplies, organizing supplies alphabetically by name might make things easier to find. You could also group supplies according to departmental needs. [9] X Expert Source Caitlin JaymesCloset Organizer & Fashion Stylist Expert Interview. 16 December 2019. For example, put accounting supplies on one shelf and administrative supplies on a separate shelf.
For example, note the specific brand and type of toner the main office printer uses. That way, you don’t have to hunt down those details every time you need to order a replacement cartridge.
If you want to be more detailed, create a “trigger point” column and plug those numbers in, too. The trigger point is the recommended amount of each item to keep stocked at all times. Once stock drops below the trigger point, it’s time to re-up! This way, you’ll never run out of anything. [13] X Research source
If updating the program isn’t possible in real time, the manager can keep a written log of items as they’re taken out and input the data later on. Set up the software to send desktop or text message alerts when items hit their trigger points so you never miss a beat! Each program works differently so be sure to get something that makes sense for your office. For example, some programs allow you to scan bar codes to record current stock levels. This is great for large offices with lots of supplies!
If you set up trigger points, remember to go by those numbers rather than the total number in stock.
How often you need to reorder depends your supply turnover and how often you do routine checks.
This means that employees will have to go through the manager (or the approved helpers) whenever they need anything.
