Tag: office

by James Adam

Top 9 Tips for Designing a Productive Office Layout


Business

You’re looking to increase productivity and creativity in your office. Yet, you aren’t sure how to best encourage your employees to improve their performance.

While employee parties and prizes are great for team-bonding, you need a more consistent source of productivity. What you may not have considered is that your office layout can impact your employee’s productivity, stress levels, and happiness.

You want the office to be a space where people feel inspired and motivated to do their best work. To get there, it needs to be conducive to all the different kinds of minds that work there.

Learn how to find productivity gold and keep your employees smiling at the same time with these tips for a productive office layout.

  1. Quality Furniture

First off, you have to get rid of those old, lumpy desk chairs that haven’t been upgraded in years. Just because they’re not falling apart (yet), doesn’t mean that your employees don’t deserve comfortable places to sit.

Incorporate different kinds of furniture throughout the office so that people can decide what kind of work seat will help them focus or relax more. Some people prefer to lounge on couches while they work, while others need to be upright in a desk chair.

Cater to all the different brilliant minds that work at your company and help them find their most productive state at the office.

  1. Different Spaces for Different Minds

As you think about buying new office chairs for your new office layout, start to brainstorm about the different kinds of spaces your employees would appreciate.

There are many different kinds of projects happening at the office, and there should be designated spaces for all of them.

You can still keep an open office layout. But also think about including quiet spaces and even private desks for people who need to be laser-focused.

Collaborative spaces are also ideal for group projects and quick meetings. And let’s be honest, a game room or social area is a great place to reset and take a break from work.

  1. Rest-Specific Spaces

Another space to include in your new office space design is a rest-specific room. While break rooms are great and all, they don’t promote true mental or physical rest.

For your employees to avoid burnout and elevate their productivity, they need to rest their minds as well. Recharge rooms are becoming more popular among many businesses who recognize that their employees spend most of their lives at the office.

Taking a mid-day nap, meditating, or simply having a moment to zone out can help the mind reset and get back to work quicker.

  1. Remember Plug-Ins and Wires

When redesigning the office, take into account where outlets and plug-ins are for phones and computers. You don’t want to put all the desks in the center of the room before you realize all the outlets are on the walls.

Plan out who needs access to plugged-in technology and incorporate that into your design plan.

  1. The Importance of Lighting

Productive office space has to include adequate, in fact excellent, lighting. Take advantage of natural light with windows and glass dividers so that the whole office can enjoy the light.

If the building your office is in doesn’t have a lot of natural sunlight, make sure you provide a variety of light solutions that provide bright, but not overwhelming, light.

You can offer individual lights for each office, as well as plenty of overhead light.

If you choose to create recharge spaces or game rooms, the lighting in these spaces can be softer or lower depending on the kinds of activities that will be most frequently enjoyed there.

  1. Balanced Decor

You may have hardly decorated your office space, or you may have chosen only hotel-worthy art pieces scattered along white walls. Consider adding some colorful art and easy-to-care-for plants to add some life to the office.

The decor doesn’t need to be expensive or super bold, but a few interesting art pieces can invigorate the mind and spark creativity.

  1. Color Psychology

When picking out decor and repainting the walls, research the effects of color psychology on work productivity. Some colors will promote creativity, happiness, and relaxation, while others can be overwhelming or feel closed-off.

Use plenty of greens, blues, and yellows in your office space. Green helps foster forward-thinking and creativity, blue is known to be calming, and yellow sparks joy.

You can accent these colors with others like orange or black that work well in conjunction with other colors.

  1. Community Boards

Hang up a couple of community boards around the office. It’s a great way to keep the office updated on office happenings and congratulate people on new milestones.

Employees can also post flyers and invite the office to parties. You can also invite your employees to collaborate to decorate the community boards for holidays and other events. Now the board serves as a community-building as well as a team-building tool.

Although you may not see everyone who works in the office every day, a community board is a good way to stay in touch.

  1. In-Office Branding

While everyone in the office knows what company they are working for (hopefully), don’t be afraid to include business interior signs in your new office layout.

You want to cultivate a sense of achievement for your employees by showing your pride in the brand you’ve created with all of their hard work and support.

The Best Office Layout

Creating a productive office space doesn’t happen in one day, but with these design tips, you can take steps to build a work-conducive space. The best office layout for your business is just around the corner, and so is increased productivity and success.

For more business and life guidance, head over to our page to answer all your questions about success and more.


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by James Adam

How to choose a custom size rugs for office space 


Homes

When you head into a home decor store, be it online or office, looking for a rug, there is a rare chance that you will find a ready-made floor rug for your office space that’s perfect. In most instances, you are bound to go for custom size rugs. Choosing a rug for your home can be vastly different than picking one for your home. Plus, unlike electronics like a television or coffee maker that you can get two for both your office and home when it comes to rugs, it is a different ball game altogether. You have to be very selective and objective when picking a rug for your office space. There are several variables you have got to consider before you make a final decision on which rug to go for your professional space. 

Do you know what those variables are? Don’t worry, let us guide you through a couple of quick tips that will find you help when you go shopping for custom size rugs for your office space. 

  • Know the decor

Let’s begin by considering the decor your office space holds. If you have designed an office with antique furniture and old looks, you should probably go for souvenir rugs like Kashmiri rugs with medical designs that will match with your decor perfectly. On the other hand, if you have a minimalistic decor with modern painting and youthful looks, modern rugs with symmetry and young design should be your primary choice. It is always better to understand how the rug will glare when put against your office decor. The wallpapers, painting, tiles, and even small items that make a place completely play an integral role in choosing the perfect rug. Even though you might presume that the floor rug will not be a point of attraction, the office is a space that your clients will visit and you want to have the best impression on them. So, don’t compromise, choose right. 

  • How many people work in your office

A strange yet necessary aspect of your rug shopping part is to acknowledge the number of employees that work in your office. Why? It’s simple. This will help you decide the material you can choose your custom size rugs to be made from. If you are going to place your rug in a place that is going to have a lot of footfall, selecting a floor rug made from cotton can be harmful to your pockets. Material like cotton can’t take a lot of footfall and will begin to dismantle soon. Whereas microfibres or even wool, to a certain extent, can withstand foot falls day in and out. You don’t have to worry about its damages. So, consider your employees and the office environment when buying a rug for your office. And also the place where you are going to floor it. 

  • Is cleaning in place? 

No matter when you place your custom size rugs, be it in the kitchen, at the reception, or inside your cabin. The more dust and feet it sees the dirtier it is going to get. And rugs are not something that’s easily learned with a broomstick, sometimes, even a vacuum will not be enough. So, the best thing you can do is to have a cleaning mechanism in place. Someone can either come in during the weekends when your office is closed and clean the rugs. A factor you should definitely think about when shopping for rugs for your office. 

  • Are measurements in place?

Have your measurements ready and know where you want to place the rugs. If you get the measurement wrong, you will have a custom made rug that is just unusable. With so many cabins and desks, office spaces can get really tricky. So, don’t go by your gut or any previous measurement. Know how much space is occupied by what and how much is not, plan your custom rugs accordingly, and choose right. 

  • Type of people in the office

An antique rug with ancient design patterns will certainly not go with an office with bean bags. In other words, you should be able to assess the type of people that work in your office. Whether they are youngsters or old-timers and then select a rug. An important aspect you must consider. 

At the end of the day, you want your office to look a class apart. So, you have to be smart. If you haven’t ventured online for rug shopping, try it. There are numerous offers and deals you can find on your favorite custom size rug. 

by James Adam

Awesome Hacks to Get Your Office Organized


Business

Getting your office space adequately organized can boost productivity and help relieve stress. Fixing your work environment brings more than just visual appeal. It also helps you work well considering that it would be easier for you to look for files in an organized workstation. 

Rework your messy desk, and we’re not just talking about getting an expanding file folder to help you reduce clutter. Here are some awesome hacks to get your office organized.

Invest in Good Label Makers 

It’s high time that you use a good label maker. HGTV suggests you can easily label your boxes, files, and drawers. When the time comes, and you’re looking for something, you’ll know exactly where the item is. 

Keep Accessories in One Corner

Your desk has a lamp, pen cup, notepads, and some tapes. Put all those things on one side rather than having them scattered across your desk. It would be easier for you to grab it in one corner and keep your desk space empty and usable for your work.

Keep Files Organized in Expanding File Folderr

An expanding file folder allows you to store large-volumes in an organized manner. These folders are designed to hold letters and legal documents of all sizes. You could also choose colorful expanding folders so it would be easier for you to pull out the right documents.

Keep the Wires Out of Sight

You’ve got the wire for your laptop, phone and tablet chargers, mouse wire, and the list goes on. Seeing those wires tangled with one another can give you a headache. The best way to reduce visual clutter is to hide the cables. The easiest hack to do is to use binder clips. Loop the wires to the binder clips and clip them to the side.

Make Use of Your Wall Space

Free up your desk space by putting shelves on the wall space. You could install floating shelves so you could reduce clutter in your workspace. Plus, they’re a pretty sight to see. Installing a pegboard is also a good idea to make use of your wall space. A pegboard is a perfect solution to store your office supplies and get it easily. You won’t have to rummage your drawer to find a pair of scissors. You could also install a whiteboard on your wall; this gives you somewhere to write important notes, reminders or somewhere where you can plan your day.

Repurpose an Old Shutter for Your Mails

Get that old shutter that’s kept in the basement and paint it. Hang it on the side of your wall and use it to put your letters. The good thing about this shutter is that it’s within your eye level. You’ll be able to see those bills and be reminded of their due dates.

Make Draw Dividers

Drawers are one of the sources of stress in workstations. Everything that can be put away is dumped into that drawer. It’s about time that you clean out your drawer and get it organized. The cheapest and most convenient way to make drawer dividers is to use cereal boxes. Cut out those cereal boxes into smaller boxes that are enough to fit your office supplies. Cover them with pretty wrappers so they’ll be a pleasant sight to see. 

by James Adam

5 Ways to Enhance Your Home Office


Homes

With large numbers of office workers switching to telework in the past few months due to the health crisis, the home office has suddenly become much more important for productivity and success. If you’re having trouble focusing or looking for ways to improve your work habits, an office redesign may be in store. Inspired by advice from an interior designer Manhattan Beach, here are five ways to enhance your home office.

 Get a Comfortable Chair and Desk Space

The first step to an efficient home office is a comfortable spot for the majority of your work. Make sure you choose a chair that offers lumbar support and an adjustable height. Pick a chair that is made of a breathable fabric and has enough padding to keep you comfortable during the workday. Your desk should also be designed with your comfort in mind, with enough clearance underneath to accommodate your legs and a height that works for you. Additionally, pick a desk that has enough storage to hold your essentials.

 Bring in Plenty of Light

Another way to give your home office a boost is to use light. Santa Monica interior design professionals recommend that a home office has at least one window to the outside. The natural light and a nice view can help keep the workday from becoming dull and uninspired. Natural light may be able to help improve your mood, increase productivity and keep you alert throughout the day.

 Keep It Organized

If you want to get the most out of your office and get more done during the day, organization is essential. Make sure you create a space that keeps your work files and supplies neatly ordered so you won’t waste time looking for things or getting frustrated. Eliminate any unnecessary items that have nothing to do with work from your home office and store them in another room. A clean, organized workspace is also important to keep you working efficiently and maintain a stress-free environment.

 Have the Right Tech Tools?

Working from home means you’ll also need to stock up your home office with the latest tech tools. Keep your desk space free to house technology items like desktop computers, printers, scanners and laptops. Gather any loose wires and keep them grouped together so there isn’t a tripping hazard in your office. Ensure you have enough electrical outlets to accommodate everything that gets plugged in or bring in a power strip to help expand capabilities.

 Allow for Creative Thought

Finally, the best office interior design Los Angeles creative professionals aim to design offices that inspire innovation. Creativity and inspiration can come from different items, such as artwork or other unique design pieces featured in your office. Hang colorful pieces on the wall to give you some stimulation. Position a few comfortable seating accessories, such as bean bag seating or a relaxing futon, to get you out of the office chair and moving for more brainstorming potential.

Your office can be the centerpiece of your home for more creative thought and efficiency. Use these design principles to make your office work better for you and your working habits.

by James Adam

7 Amazing Ideas to make a statement with office interior


Business

Offices are important for everyone. You spend most of your time there, and the office of a person may be a testament to the personal qualities and tastes of a person. This is very closely observed by those who visit your office. This impression may be very important for you in the short as well as the long term. 

There are multiple ideas which you can use to make sure that there is no area left untouched, which can ensure a great impression imprinted on the minds of those who are there in your office. If you are looking to redecorate or enhance the outlook of your office by making some changes in the interior, you have come to the right place. 

This article will venture to guide you on the internal decoration of your office and how you can use some simple tips and tricks to significantly augment the level of attractiveness of your office. 

Furniture

The furniture is the very first and most important thing for anyone who visits your office. Hence, you need to invest in this area. You may want to get a coffee table range for this purpose and a few more things that please your eyes and motivates you to work.

Colour Theme 

The colour combination of the office is another very important aspect which you need to focus on. The colour combination of the office needs to be light and soothing. Such colours such as light blue can have multiple beneficial psychological effects for you.

Floors 

The floor of the office needs to look sublime in order to create a lasting impression in the minds of those who visit your office. Firstly, you need to decide whether or not you want a carpet. If the floor is in good quality and shape, you may not want to get a carpet. Hardwood and other similar materials can prove to be very attractive for any outlook of office. However, even if you of any carpet, you may get a rug. This can add to the beauty of the office.

Windows

The aspect of windows is critical to the outlook of the office. Not only can these prove to be a great source of much needed natural light during the day, but it can also provide a valuable added benefit if there is a view worth watching outside the window. This aspect can make sure that there is a significant addition to the overall beauty of the office as well.

Wall Decor

The wall decorations need to speak for themselves and can play a great role in making an impression in the minds of the visitors. However, you need to make sure that these wall decorations are in line with the overall theme of the office and the workplace. If not, it may seem awkward. Also, you need to make sure that these objects are related to the nature of work the office is for. These decorations also need to be elegant and graceful. Read more at backsplash peel and stick.

Additional Attractions

Additional decorations can go a long way in making your office look more attractive. You can hand up that ancient sword you bought on your trip or a souvenir from an exotic place you visited. Not only can these objects help you in making your office look more attractive, but can also serve as majestic conversation starters.

Creative Desk 

There must be a personal touch to your office setting. The visitors will always appreciate the small photo frame of your children on your desk or your favourite book in the bookshelfonThis gives the visitors a chance to see another side of your personality and they can trust you and get more connected to you this way. It can prove to be very helpful in creating meaningful business relationships. 

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by James Adam

4 Health Risks Lurking in Office (Solutions)


Business

It’s not simply sitting for long hours within the workplace making an attempt to satisfy one point in time once consecutive that’s sapping all the energy from you.

Not taking breaks, individuals sternutation over you, snatching chocolate here and there to keep at bay hunger pains and watching your pc hour once an hour are all touching your physical upbeat and your psychological state.

If you aren’t healthy, you can’t work – in no way at levels that are productive. several staff World Health Organization fail to indicate up at the workplace aren’t even seriously sick – they’re run-down, reasonless, sad and stressed.

Here are the four most typical workplace distractions and health risks lurking in nearly every workplace, and the way to tackle them head-on.

1. Ohio the Noise!

Sometimes it simply appears like the regular noise of the workplace is specified you can’t suppose straight. associate degree workplace must create space for quietness – quiet zones that are a refuge from the loudness out there. this can be a space wherever others apprehend that the individual’s exploitation space expect no noise to intrude the quietness. more information on toohumid.com

The easiest fix to deal with this can be to shop for a decent try of noise canceling headphones. They work like magic in filtering out all the skin and ground noise in your surroundings, material possession you target the task at hand.

From a leader position, contemplate introducing table screens which supply individuals additional privacy and which may even be helpful for block noise. Bosses also can explore additional costlier solutions like insulating walls and finance in carpets.

2. engineering Injuries

Office staff pays several hours of their day seated at a table. This ends up in strain and injuries associated with unhealthy posture and repetitive movement. a range of adjustable engineering chairs with the correct body part and back support are out there on the market, some even within the budget class.

A recent trend in biotechnology is to face whereas you’re employed, either via a standing table or sit-stand chair that keep your body in associate degree upright position. each is nice choices if your budget permits for them.

3. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality contributes to activity allergies and metabolic process disorders. There are numerous contaminants within the air that cause these health issues – workplace overcrowding, workplace style that blocks off air flow, inadequate ventilation systems, water harm, and mold growth and dirty work environments.

Studies tell North American country that unhealthy air will truly scale back a worker’s ability to suppose and therefore the ability to form higher selections, limiting work performance. Yes, fashionable workplaces nowadays and of the longer term have architects making buildings and office areas that ensures indoor environmental quality, however what concerning older buildings? If you’re in associate degree older building you can’t suddenly demand that your building be upgraded, however, there are many changes which will be created –

use a vacuum with a Hepa-filter a minimum of 3x per week on carpets and upholstered article of furniture to cut back mud and mites
keep contaminants unfree with the utilization of floor mats at every entrance. These mat scale back half-track in sources of dirt
keep a healthy level of wetness in your building. fashionable air conditioners dry as they cool. If your workplace doesn’t have an associate degree cooling system, invest during a dehumidifier, creating your workplace less hospitable to allergens like mold and dirt.

4. workplace litter and Mayhem

De-cluttering and basic cleanliness will stop the unfold of diseases and diseases within the work. Piles of ancient files and paper breed germs and litter truly limits your brain’s ability to method data. workplace kitchens, rubbish bins, bogs, and rest-rooms ought to all be frequently clean and change. a decent plan is to pay money for associate degree workplace cleansing service World Health Organization give a listing of services.

Conclusion:

Health, happiness and upbeat within the workplace may be a hot topic nowadays to diminish the chance of injury and health problem within the work.

There are professionals World Health Organization will get involved to assist with introducing healthy habits within the workplace. If however, you’re going it alone in your workplace, determine risks, develop arrange|an idea|a thought|a concept|an inspiration} and place that plan into action as a result of it ought to be in each company’s interest to possess happy, healthy staff.

by Incredible Planet Staff

Ways to stay fit in a 9-5 office job


Lifestyle

We spend, on average, almost nine hours a day sat down – and that’s not taking into account the eight hours we spend lying down whilst sleeping – and this lack of activity has been linked to health problems like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. So how can we stay fit, and combat this issue?

You might think that you don’t spend that long sitting down each day, but when you break your day down, it’s easy to see how easy it is to fall into the habit. Perhaps you consider a home gym, or possibly just running for a few minutes each day. Both are viable options, depending on your ambition and spare time.

Most of us work in an office from 9 to 5 and sit at a computer desk for five days of the week, as well as commuting which can take up a substantial amount of time in your day (especially in major cities), and not forgetting the hours you spend binge-watching Netflix as soon as you get home. Unfortunately, it’s making many of us heavier and sicker.

As a result, it is vital to stay fit whenever you can if you have a busy work schedule. Here are 6 ways to ensure you stay fit and healthy when working in a full-time office job:

Walk as much as possible to stay fit

Walking is an easy way to keep active, so it’s best to fit it in wherever you can. If you drive to work, it is worth parking further away to get the steps on your FitBit up. Alternatively, the same goes for people who travel on the bus or train – get off a stop of two earlier and take a stroll into work

If you work in a high-rise building, split taking the lift and walking up the stairs to ensure you are getting some physical activity. Also consider going on lunch-time walks with some of your colleagues as a way of making exercise a way of socialising.

Move around during your 9-5

Sitting down can have a severe negative impact on overall health and well being as humans are simply not designed to be sitting down – especially not for long periods of time.

To avoid being sat for hours on end, it is sensible to set a timer on your computer to remind you to get up and move around every hour to two hours; make it into a routine and your body will thank you for it.

It is vital to make small changes to your lifestyle, such as walking to a colleague rather than phoning them. Some businesses are even considering introducing ‘walking meetings’ to combat this.

Workout at your desk

If you don’t have a chance to get up and about when at work, make time! There are many simple workouts that you can do whilst sitting at your desk, without drawing attention to yourself and needing gym equipment.

For example, a good workout for your abs is to squeeze the muscles in your core tightly for one minute, and then releasing – you can do as many of these as you wish whilst working.

Alternatively, an under-desk cycle is another smart option, that doesn’t take up much room or bite into your bank account.

Avoid skipping breakfast

As most of us know, breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Thus, skipping breakfast is a ‘no-no’.

Your metabolism slows down when you sleep, so it’s sensible to eat within a few hours after you wake up, to help boost your metabolism for the whole day and avoid snacking on fatty foods later in the day.

Don’t snack

A recently-conducted study found that women eat 100,000 calories worth of office snacks at their desks a year and indulge in at least three snacks during a typical working day, totaling almost 500 calories in an average 9 to 5 job.

It is advised to stay clear of typically ‘unhealthy’ snacks, such as crisps and chocolate, and if you are feeling peckish, opt for healthier options such as fruit. However, avoid dry fruit as they can be unhealthy and full of sugar.

Drink water – and lots of it!

Numerous studies have shown that drinking around 8 to 10 glasses of water throughout the day can be highly beneficial to your body, and also encourages weight loss.

If water isn’t your cup of tea, consider buying a water diffuser where you can add fruit to make your very own flavored water – without the added sugar and additives.

Setting up your own home fitness gym

In your journey towards a fit and healthy lifestyle, starting can be easy enough. Maintaining this lifestyle is where the challenge lies.

You might find yourself one day feeling tired and exhausted, balancing all your responsibilities and your hobbies.

Sometimes, instead of going to your local gym to squeeze in that much-needed sweat session, you’re tempted to just travel home. But what if your gym is at home?

Setting up your very own home gym can lessen the hassle of paying membership fees and driving to a different destination after a long day of work. It allows you to get your workout done in the comfort and convenience of your homes.

Find a Space to Set Up Your Home Gym

Before building your home gym, the first step is to consider its location. Where will you place the equipment?

When setting up your own workout station, it’s important to find a space to inspire and motivate you to move. In this step, you need to ask yourself the following questions:

  • How much space is available at home?

Take a look at the layout of your house and identify which room can accommodate gym equipment and give you the most freedom for movement.

Some people who live in smaller spaces may find this difficult, but definitely not impossible.

You just have to be more creative with setting up. Perhaps you can use your living room to double as a home gym.

When there’s a will, there will always be a way to make this work. The important thing to remember is your chosen workout space should not disrupt other areas of the house.

  • What type of exercises will you do?

When building your gym at home, it is important to consider what kind of workouts you’re inclined to do.

If you’re more focused on building strength and gaining muscles that require more equipment, you would need to find a bigger space. But if you’re more inclined to doing HIIT or cardio exercises, then smaller spaces will suffice.

Knowing what type of workouts you will do can help you choose the perfect space to set up your exercise station.

Buy the Home Gym Essentials to Get You Started

Once the gym room has been finalized, the next step is to determine which equipment to purchase. This, of course, depends on the type of workout you’ll be doing.

Every piece of equipment has its distinctive purpose. The main objective is to find one that will help you reach your personal fitness goals.

Some equipment is designed for cardio and endurance, while others are designed for strength and mobility.

On the one hand, if you want to focus more on increasing your heart rate and building endurance, some equipment that will work for you include a fitness air-bike, a rowing machine, a spin bike, and a treadmill.

On the other hand, if you want to define your muscles and get stronger, you should invest in a curl bar set, a dumbbell set, and weight plates. They are available in various weights, so you can easily adjust the level of intensity.

Maintain a Clean and Safe Workout Space

After allocating the perfect space and purchasing the necessary equipment, the last and final step is to arrange your home gym that ensures safety.

To do this, you need to ensure that all the equipment is in good condition before every usage. Clean the space after every session, and store away the workout gear in their proper places.

Most importantly, don’t leave any equipment lying around. In doing so, you prevent the occurrence of accidents or injuries.

Benefits of Having Your Own Home Gym

Having the convenience of a gym at home is empowering. The fact that you have full control of your body and your time gives you more freedom to do what you want.

You can get fit and stay fit on your own terms in your own time. There are no boundaries and no limitations. Your home gym is your complete domain, and you’re free to customize it any way you want.

by Incredible Planet Staff

5 Interesting Ways To Reduce Environmental Impact At Work And Home


Business

Most of us can come up with interesting ways to reduce the environmental impact of our lives at home. There are quite a few methods that people already know about – while we will talk about a couple new ones. But it is at the office where most people are stumped. How do you continue remaining productive while ensuring that you are not unnecessarily harming the environment?

  1. Assess Water Usage

Installing a water meter at the office is a good way to get a reading of how much water is being used by the entire floor. Automatic taps that shut off after a set number of seconds can help a lot. Using water-saver shower heads, energy-efficient toilets and new plumbing can also help a lot. While your employees are not going to use the toilet fewer times, the amount of water that is used during each visit to the bathroom is drastically reduced with these measures.

  1. Custom Shopping Bags

It is incredible how many plastic bags we can accumulate from a single shopping trip. Whether it is for groceries at home or office supplies, it only takes a few trips to get a massive collection of plastic bags. Avoid plastic waste by purchasing quality custom shopping bags through a site like Custom Earth Promos. These bags are made with “green” materials and are reusable.

Not only are the bags great for the environment, but they are also a lot of fun to use! They look fun, classy and you will surely get asked about them when you are next at the office supply store or a grocery store.

  1. Paperless Office

Going paperless is an incredible way to reduce waste in an office environment. Think about how many papers are just lying around in cabinets, unused. Now think about the papers that are thrown out or shredded each day. Most companies run on the internet these days. Going paperless with invoices and important documents will help the planet in a big way.

  1. Recycle

Recycling is something that you can do at home and at the office. It is all about being aware about the products that you can recycle. Bottles, cans, paper and other items are all recyclable. Have separate containers in the office where employees can easily distinguish between regular trash and recycling. Remind them about recycling periodically so they develop this great habit.

  1. Energy Efficient Fixtures

Light bulbs, LED monitors and other appliances can provide energy savings even with regular use. Motion-sensor activated lights are another option. If no one is in the room, they will immediately turn off. It does not even need to take someone in the office remembering to shut them off before they head out.

Making changes to the way we behave in the office is not easy. But a few adjustments can ensure your business runs as it is now – while using less resources! It is a great feeling when you know that you are reducing your environmental impact at home and work.

by Incredible Planet Staff

Advantages of Recruitment Agencies in Outsourcing Back Office Support Services


Business

Back office operations are an integral part of any business, including recruitment agencies. To ensure that your recruitment business runs smoothly, you have to see to it that your back office operations are conducted efficiently. Outsourcing your back office requirements can lessen your burden without impacting your core-business activities. Check out the main advantages of recruitment agencies in outsourcing back office support services:

A cost-effective solution

Cost efficiency is one of the key objectives of all business. By outsourcing the back office support services of your recruitment agency, you can save on costs on many fronts. For instance, you will be able to reduce the labour costs needed to maintain an in-house back office staff. Also, infrastructural costs and expenses related to business operations and staff training also gets reduced when your back office services are handled by an external agency. In other words, you can expect to derive maximum output by investing minimum operational cost.

More opportunity to focus on core business

When you have to deal with the back office services, your time gets divided between them and your core business demands. While handling both these aspects is important for your business, it makes more sense to invest your time and energy to meet your core business demands. If you outsource your back office requirements, this objective can be easily achieved. You will have more time on your hands to focus on your core business. At the same time, you will also know that your back office services are taken care of in an effective manner.

Get efficient service

Efficiency is a prime concern area when it comes to back office service for recruitment agencies. This is where an outsourcing firm can be of great help. You get to hire the services of experienced professionals who are adept at handling back-office operations. Also, you can expect to get fast reporting apart from the delivery of accurate services. If you are looking for a firm that specifically deals with your industry requirements, you can consider recruitment back office outsourcing to Back Office Support Services.

Flexibility in staffing

With an outsourcing firm handling the back office support services of your recruitment agency, you won’t have to worry about staffing issues. You can scale up or scale down your work as per your requirement without having to worry about payment issues. The flexibility to pay only for the amount of work that is handled by the outsourcing firm provides you the freedom to increase or decrease the workload as per your business demands. You can hire additional resources whenever they are required and let them go when the work is done.

If you’re looking for more pros and cons of outsourcing, the linked post is a great next step. And remember, whether you are a start-up or an established agency, the advantages of outsourcing back office support services for your recruitment agency are many. However, make sure that the outsourcing agency you select is an experienced one with a long-standing track record of providing back office support services for recruitment agencies in an effective manner.

by Incredible Planet Staff

4 Health Risks Lurking in Every Office (and solutions)


Business

It’s not just sitting for long hours in the office trying to meet one deadline after the next that is sapping all the energy from you.

Not taking breaks, people sneezing over you, snatching a chocolate here and there to ward off hunger pains and staring at your computer hour after hour are all affecting your physical wellbeing and your mental health.

If you aren’t healthy, you can’t work – certainly not at levels that are productive. Many employees who fail to show up at the office aren’t even seriously ill – they’re run-down, unmotivated, unhappy and stressed.

Here are the 4 most common office distractions and health risks lurking in almost every office, and how to tackle them head on.

1. Oh the Noise!

Sometimes it just seems as though the regular noise of the office is such that you can’t think straight. An office needs to make room for quietness – quiet zones which are a refuge from the loudness out there. This is a room where others know that the people using the room expect no noise to intrude the quietness.

The easiest fix to address this is to buy a good pair of noise canceling headphones. They work like magic in filtering out all the outside and background noise in your surroundings, letting you focus on the task at hand.

From a employer standpoint, consider introducing desk screens which offer people more privacy and which can also be useful for blocking noise. Bosses can also look at more costlier solutions such as insulating walls and investing in carpets.

2. Ergonomic Injuries

Office workers spend many hours of their day seated at a desk. This results in strain and injuries related to bad posture and repetitive movement. A variety of adjustable ergonomic chairs with proper lumbar and back support are available on the market, some even in the budget category.

A recent trend in ergonomics is to stand while you work, either via a standing desk or sit-stand chair that keep your body in an upright position. Both are great options if your budget allows for them.

3. Poor Indoor Air Quality

Poor indoor air quality contributes to occupational allergies and respiratory disorders. There can be so many contaminants in the air that cause these health problems – office overcrowding, office design that blocks off air flow, inadequate ventilation systems, water damage and mold growth and dirty work environments.

Studies tell us that bad air can actually reduce a worker’s ability to think and the ability to make better decisions, limiting workplace performance. Yes, modern offices today and of the future have architects creating buildings and office spaces which ensures indoor environmental quality, but what about older buildings?  If you’re in an older building you can’t suddenly demand that your building be upgraded, but there are a few changes that can be made –

  • use a vacuum with a hepa-filter at least 3x a week on carpets and upholstered furniture to reduce dust and mites
  • keep contaminants at bay with the use of floor mats at each entrance. These mat reduce tracked in sources of dirt
  • keep a healthy level of humidity in your building. Modern air conditioners dehumidify as they cool. If your office doesn’t have an air conditioner, invest in a dehumidifier, making your office less hospitable to allergens such as mold and dust.

4. Office Clutter and Mayhem

De-cluttering and basic cleanliness can prevent the spread of illnesses and diseases in the workplace. Piles of ancient files and paper breed germs and clutter actually limits your brain’s ability to process information. Office kitchens, rubbish bins, bathrooms and rest-rooms should all be regularly cleaned and sanitized. A good idea is to pay for an office cleaning service who provide a checklist of services.

Conclusion:

Health, happiness and wellbeing in the office is a hot topic today to diminish the risk of injury and illness in the workplace.

There are professionals who can become involved to help with introducing healthy habits in the office. If however, you’re going it alone in your office, identify risks, develop a plan and put that plan into action because it should be in every company’s interest to have contented, healthy employees.

References: 

  1. Allen, J. Harvard Business Review.Research: Stale Office Air Is Making You Less Productive. Available at https://hbr.org/2017/03/research-stale-office-air-is-making-you-less-productive
  2. Consumer Reports: Best noise canceling headphones Available at: https://www.consumerreports.org/noise-canceling-headphones/who-makes-the-best-noise-canceling-headphones/
  3. Ergotrends. Best Ergonomic Office Chairs Available at http://ergonomictrends.com/best-ergonomic-office-chairs-reviews-buyers-guide/
  4. Doland, E. Europa. Scientists find physical clutter negatively affects your ability to focus, process in Available at http://forumeuropa.net/printthread.php?tid=2942
by Incredible Planet Staff

Benefits of Window Tinting Your office


Business

There are many advantages that come with window tinting your office building. One of the undeniable merits is that it makes your premises look great in the eyes of your clients. It could even get you new hires and buyers! Even for your suppliers, tainted office windows have a huge impact. Below are the top benefits of installing tinted windows in your workplace.

  1. It reduces unwanted solar heat

Tinting an office is the most effective way of minimizing the excess solar heat that is transferred through the windows. Well-tinted windows can reduce indoor heat by around 78%. What a good way to cool off the sun-drenched spots in your office! You can finally control the hot areas of your working place. you can take advantage of these wonderful benefits by getting touch with Sunshine Coast Window Tinting company today!

  1. Tints block harmful UV rays

If you didn’t know, window tinting can block 99% of the UV rays, besides reducing direct sun heat. As such, it protects your valuable furnishings from the detrimental effects of UV rays. Moreover, it acts as a sunscreen for the skin, safeguarding you and your office workers against UV.

  1. It reduces heat loss

Tinting the office windows is another way of controlling the indoor temperatures. By reducing heat loss, you can save on your cooling costs. This is because a cool environment increases the efficiency of the HVAC system, leading to reduced power bills. For the same reasons, most architects, engineers, and designers recommend window films to reduce indoor heat and consequently lower the cost of cooling an office or home. Summer heat and winter cold cab get inside your office through the windows. The good news is that a window tint film would reduce such leakages, making your office energy saving. Imagine the hot sun hitting your thermostat head on half the day in every room of your office premises. That means your AC would be running more than necessary. But if you install window films, you can save thousands of dollars on your cooling bills for years.

  1. It minimizes safety environmental hazards

If you don’t want to expose your office to vandalism and intruders, consider tinting your windows. Window tints can be the safety nets you just need to keep off burglars. Most of the tint films are shutter-proof. They also prevent damage from scraping and paint. There are even high-end tints that can protect a building from a bomb blast. They may not prevent debris from flying in but will drastically reduce the extent of damage and flying glasses getting into the office. Shattered glass is hazardous during a bomb blast as well as in other natural calamities like earthquakes and storms. Special tints are designed to hold the glass together even when it breaks. As such, you have no worries about the minute shards that fly into an office. Like the safety glasses, tint films make windows less hazardous.

  1. It complements the office design

If your office takes a contemporary design, your designer can help you pick a window film that complements that design. A tint is a special finishing. It is not just functional but also an aesthetic element. It is a great way to enhance both the interior and exterior decors of an office. It makes your workplace look more elegant and you don’t need to break into a bank to do it.

  1. Quick installation

If you call a professional to install a window film, the disruption of your work schedule will be infinitesimal.

  1. Window tinting adds on to your comfort

If you have ever been to a restaurant near the beach with clear glasses, you will notice that no one wants to sit near the bright dead zones as they are too hot. This could happen to your office and the problem is that there might not be extra desks for the employees who are sun-drenched. What will happen to those workers? They will suffer and probably seek employment elsewhere out of resentment. Luckily, window tinting can keep off the hot sun rays and still allow sufficient light to brighten your office. You and your employees thus enjoy a cool indoor environment.

  1. Warranty plan

If you contact a professional service, your windows will be backed by a warranty. It’s, therefore, a risk-free investment.

Most people think that window tinting is only reserved for cars. What they don’t know is that the benefits of glass-tinting automotive can be passed on to an office. Designers encourage commercial tinting to help you defend the comfort and health of a workplace as well as improve energy efficiency and aesthetics.

Whether you are being bothered by snow reflections, direct sun, surrounding buildings, or nearby water, a window film is a perfect solution to help minimize the irritating glare.

by Noor Najam

5 Simple Tips to Lose Weight with a Long-Hours Desk Job


Lifestyle

Are you tired of listening to people telling you, that you are gaining weight? All your clothes have stopped fitting, and you are worried about it? If you are someone who work in an office for long hours, have no time to work out and follow a diet plan, you are reading the right article. I have compiled 5 simple tips in this post that can help you to lose weight with a long-hours desk job.

People who perform daily work task seated in their cubicles with their laptops find it really difficult to go to gym or follow a fitness routine. Sometimes making small changes can contribute to a healthier lifestyle. If you have a zero activity level, you are doing office work overtime, you need to make sure you are doing following to maintain your weight:

Tip # 1: Stop drinking calories!

Major mistake that most people in offices do is that they keep so many unhealthy beverages in their office spaces. Energy drinks, sodas, creamy coffees, chocolate shakes and whatnot! Even if you are skipping lunch and thinking you have done such a great thing by only having drinks. You are mistaken. These drinks have so much sugar and processed chemicals in them. Replace them with fresh juices, smoothies, green tea, and black coffee.

Tip # 2: Walk to your office

This is a very basic tip. Instead of using an auto or a car, use a bicycle or brisk walk to your office. It will help you to burn so many calories daily. Walking is great for mental and physical health. You will fresh and energized when you will reach office and it will help you greatly in keeping your weight down. You can even install an app to see how much distance you cover and how many calories you burn daily to keep yourself motivated.

Tip # 3: Bring healthy Snacks to office

Most people rely on vending machines for snacks which destroy their health, cause them to gain weight and make them lazy. Believe it or not, processed food items are not good for health. If you are worried that how I am going to get fresh veggies and fruits from the market to make some healthy snacks as you have got no time. Learn about e-grocery shopping here. This might make things easier for you.

Tip # 4:  Don’t take the elevator

Staircase climbing is best to keep your muscles tones and strong. It’s the best way to burn calories. Always go for the stairs. This way you will get to meet more people and you will have more toned legs. This will become your habit in no time. Ditch the elevator completely.

Tip #5: Don’t have lunch out

If you will pack your lunch at home when you’re NOT eager and in a rush, you will make healthier food choices as compared to the choices of dashing to the closest café when you’re starving on your meal break. With the menu loaded with pictures and a snarling stomach, you’re more unfavorable to pick good alternatives (if there are any.)

by Incredible Planet Staff

Best Portable Projectors for Business Presentations


Technology

If уоu nееd tо charge уоur LED / DLP / LCD projector fоr presentations іn a variety оf locations, уоu knоw thаt thеrе іѕ a big difference bеtwееn a projector thаt weighs еіght pounds аnd оnе thаt weighs fоur. But саn a lightweight Portable Micro Projector Reviews рrоvіdе thе nесеѕѕаrу presentation quality fоr meeting rooms, classrooms аnd hоmе theaters?

Yеѕ! All оf thеѕе units hаvе XGA resolution (1024×768) оr (even better) WXGA (1280×800), whісh mаkеѕ thеm perfectly compatible wіth today’s high-resolution computer screens. (Cheap models dо nоt support resolutions thаt аrе high еnоugh fоr commercial presentations.) Fоr mоrе information аbоut projector resolution, terms, аnd technologies, ѕее Bеfоrе уоu buy a projector. Fоr Yоur Business.

Note thаt ѕоmе units іn thе list mention brightness іn ANSI lumens. Thе values оf ANSI lumens аrе muсh lоwеr thаn thе lumens quoted bу thе manufacturers аnd thеrе іѕ nо easy conversion formula: thе оnlу wау tо knоw іѕ bу dіrесt comparison.

Hеrе аrе thе bеѕt LCD, LED аnd portable DLP projectors fоr presentations. All аrе light (less thаn twо pounds) but аrе ѕtіll full оf features tо shine аnу presentation.

Epson EX7240 Prо WXGA 3LCD Projector

Epson boasts оf bеіng number оnе іn image quality (WXGA resolution (1280 x 800) offers twісе аѕ muсh resolution аѕ SVGA fоr HD quality presentations) аnd hаѕ a quick аnd easy setup. Bоth аrе true wіth thіѕ Portable Micro Projector Reviews, but features ѕuсh аѕ compatibility wіth laptops аnd mеdіа players аnd thе ability tо display presentations, videos, аnd photos frоm MHL-compatible smartphones аnd tablets whіlе charging уоur device, іn fact, a large projector fоr presentations Thе brightness іѕ 3200 lumens іn color аnd white аnd thе life оf thе lamp іѕ 10,000 hours.

Optoma EH500 3D DLP Network Projector

It features the very latest in optical projection technology.If thе quality оf уоur presentations іѕ important tо уоu аnd оftеn occurs іn large groups, uѕе thіѕ portable projector. Wіth high-resolution 1080p native resolution аnd 4700 lumens brightness, уоur presentations wіll bе crisp. And аll оf thіѕ projector’s connectivity options аnd network management capabilities mаkе іt ideal fоr large situations іn thе classroom. It аlѕо hаѕ thе latest image controller technology аnd full 3D compatibility.

AAXA P2 Jr Pico Projector

It is a portable mini device with a weight of 0.3 lbs, can facilely fit in your mini pockets. It can support the video of 720p, 1080p, and 1080i with 55 lumens.  The dynamic shading innovation is used in the formation of AAXA P2 Jr Pico Projector. You can now enjoy the music, movies, and video games with your friends and family.

Optoma ML750 DLP LED portable projector

Thіѕ ultra-compact LED floodlight hаѕ incredible performance іn a small package. Weighing 14 ounces аnd measuring 4 “x 4” x 1.5 “at 700 ANSI lumens оf brightness. Wіth microSD аnd USB ports, іt іѕ nесеѕѕаrу tо connect a PC tо Optima аѕ іt hаѕ аn integrated player аnd a viewer desk fоr presentations.

Optoma supports WXGA resolution аnd HD video (1920×1080) vіа HDMI. Hе іѕ аlѕо capable оf 3D. LED technology offers beautiful, crisp images аnd bright colors. Wіth vеrу lоw power consumption аnd super lоng LED life (over 20,000 hours), thе Optima іѕ аn excellent choice fоr a portable projector.

ViewSonic PLED-W800 Portable LED Projector

Wіth fоur books, thе ViewSonic PLED-W800 іѕ a solid choice. Thе LED light source рrоvіdеѕ 800 ANSI lumens іn WXGA аnd HD resolutions. It соmеѕ wіth HDMI аnd USB connectors аnd аn SD card slot. Mеdіа Player support means thаt уоu саn play video files аnd view PDF аnd MS Office documents wіthоut connecting thе unit tо a PC. An optional (but expensive) USB dongle рrоvіdеѕ wireless connectivity tо a PC оr Mac.

Althоugh thе W800 іѕ nоt thе cheapest portable projector, іtѕ lifespan оf mоrе thаn 30,000 hours аnd іtѕ minimal power consumption ensure a lоw cost оf ownership.

Epson PowerLite 1761W Wireless 3LCD Projector

Twо thіngѕ mаkе thіѕ Portable Micro Projector Reviews ѕtаnd оut: іtѕ versatility аnd size (1.7 “tall аnd 3.7 lb.) It hаѕ WXGA resolution аnd HDMI connector fоr HD video content аnd offers wireless connectivity tо Mac, PC, iPhone / iPad оr Android Wіth 2600 lumens оf color / B & W brightness wіth 3LCD technology, image quality іѕ crisp аnd сlеаr.

 

Dell M115HD Mobile LED Projector

A lеѕѕ expensive option fоr presentations іn small group meetings, thе Dell M115HD іѕ rеаllу small wіth 13 ounces аnd 4 “x 4” x1.4 “in size, making іt perfect fоr traveling.

It hаѕ 450 lumens ANSI brightness аt WXGA resolution аnd DLP technology рrоvіdеѕ excellent image clarity. Thеrе аrе USB, VGA аnd HDMI inputs аnd аn optional dongle (albeit terribly expensive) fоr wireless connectivity.

If уоu аrе a “warrior оf thе road” аnd lооkіng fоr a great projector іn a small, lightweight package, thе Dell M115HD іѕ perfect.

Vivitek Qumi Q5 LED / DLP Portable Projector

Thе Vivitek Qumi Q5 projector іѕ аnоthеr economical option perfectly suited tо mаnу professional presentations. It іѕ a small space (6.3 “x 1.3” x 4.0 “) аnd lightweight (1.1 lbs.) It mаkеѕ іt ideal fоr traveling.

It supports WXGA аnd HD resolutions аnd offers 500 lumens brightness wіth DLP technology. LED life оf mоrе thаn 30,000 hours means nо expensive bulb replacement. Inputs include HDMI аnd USB, аnd Office Viewer аllоwѕ playback оf a variety оf image formats, documents, аnd video files wіthоut a PC connection. Compatible wіth 3D, іt аlѕо hаѕ wireless connectivity vіа thе optional USB dongle. Fоr thоѕе whо love vibrant colors, thеѕе аrе blue, yellow аnd rеd models.

Wіth thеѕе mаnу features аt a modest price, thе Vivitek Qumi Q5 іѕ аn excellent choice fоr a portable projector.

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by Incredible Planet Staff

4 Uncommon Practices That Benefit Your Home Business


Business

If you operate a home business, you are more than likely taking advantage of the many tax deductions available for a home office, like utility payments and depreciation on your vehicle. However, it is important to remember that taxes are not the only area you need to pay attention to when you want your company to grow. These four practices are often ignored by home business owners, yet they can be critical to your success.

Take Time for Marketing

When you operate a home-based business, you usually do not have a sign out front letting people know your business is there. Marketing is more critical for home-based businesses than it is for other companies as people won’t know you exist if you don’t tell them you do. Just like any other business, you need to create a marketing plan and update it annually. For online marketing one of the most cost effective solutions for a long term business is SEO, a practice that essentially helps land your website in front of people searching for services you can offer, instead of your competitor. There’s a lot of tricks out there, but according to Tayloright, an established company in the business, one of the most important things is for other websites to link back to yours. This means your website will show up more often than rival websites, and thus gain you more clicks and revenue down the line.

Set a goal to contact ten new clients each day, five days per week. You can do that through email, social media, fax, letter or phone calls. Send coupons, brochures, updates or thank-you notes each day. Printing and mailing five letters will cost just $2.75 while phone calls or faxes cost less than a quarter. If you do use email to reach clients, keep your message to less than 250 words and use a subject line that catches attention.

Economize Easily

Sometimes, it is not what you purchase for your business that makes a difference, but how you make those purchases. In some cases, you may be able to avoid spending cash by using barter with another company. For example, you could provide your accounting services to a web designer who agrees to setup and maintain your website.

Check to see if suppliers offer discounts for early payment. If not, pay them as late as possible without incurring a late fee to keep your money in your account as long as possible. Seek three bids on purchases, even small ones, to be sure you are getting the lowest price. Even small office purchases can lead to big expenses. Use recycled printer cartridges or print your own forms. If you need a floor mat under your desk chair, simply purchase sheet plastic from a supplier, like Plastics For Industry Pty Ltd, as this is less expensive than pre-made floor mats from an office supply store.

Manage Your Time

One of the biggest mistakes people make when they run a home business is blurring the line between work and home. Schedule set work hours whenever possible. For example, if it is easier for you to work from 10 AM to 3 PM when the children are at school, make those your set work hours. Be at your desk at 10 AM and, at 3 PM, shut everything down and leave work for the next day. At the end of the day, write down a to-do list of what you want to accomplish the next day. Prioritize all tasks by asking yourself:

  • Is this task critical to my business?
  • Is this task going to increase my income or get me more customers?
  • Is this task helping to achieve my goals?
  • Could someone else handle this task?

If your answer was no to any of those questions, make that task a lower priority or assign it to someone else. If you are finding yourself getting behind on a regular basis, keep a log of what you do each day for one week. At the end of the week, sit down and evaluate where you are wasting time and how you could adjust to accomplish more.

Work Space

Another mistake that home-based business owners make is to use their entire house as their “office.” If your dining room table is your desk, requiring you to clear it every night for dinner, you are probably having difficulty creating set work hours. An office does not need to be an entire room. You can create an office space in a corner, such as the corner of your family room or your bedroom.

Put a small table or desk in the space you want to use, add a few baskets or shelves and a comfortable chair. Explain to family that when you are at your “desk,” you are working and should not be interrupted. If your home-based business requires inventory, store it in just one location in your home or garage to avoid “home inventory takeover” throughout your house.

These are just a few tips that can help you keep your home-based business on track and could help you grow your business more quickly.

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by Incredible Planet Staff

Tips To Help You Find The Right Office Printer


Business

A bit of research and window shopping is necessary when looking to advance business services by utilizing the right printer for your office. The market has many new printer models with newer ones release every few months. As such, the exterior aesthetics and the price tag can easily sway you to buying without looking at and considering other essential features of the printer. In short, you need to arm yourself with the right information before you start window shopping, and below are some few things you need to know before you head out.

What Is Your Office Type And Size?

Printers are designed to cater to the needs and demands of different office types and spaces. If your workplace has more than 100 people, buying a printer that can service five people will not suffice. What you get should match up with the office size and demands so that it gives the right output without fail.

What Features Do You Need?

Different printer brands and models offer various services ranging from scanning and copy printing to faxing. They have a wide price range based on such features, and thus your purchases should be based on what you need the printer to do. Depending on the type of printer management you need in your office, whether it be at home or not, considering what exactly you need is key in finding the right deal.

What Is Your Budget?

Set your budget while accounting for the total cost of operation and not on the cost of purchasing the printer, only. You should consider for other factors such as the cost of replacing or refilling the ink cartridges against the page yield as well as the cost of doing repairs and replacing parts such as the waste bin or the fuser unit. Check out our article on Cost per Page to know more about the basics and costs of the printer cartridges.

Consider The Speed

The print speed is an essential aspect to consider particularly if you are looking for a machine to use in a busy office. Check the PPM (Pages per Minute) to know how fast the printer runs when printing pages; you may also come across IPM (Images per Minute). Get a printer with a high PPM and IPM, more so if the staff have to share a printer so that you avoid backed up queues at the machine.

Factor In Cost Per Page

Keep in mind that with printers, as is with many other devices and machines, no one size fits all when you consider the page yield. You can use an individual cartridge in a particular printer model and get more pages done than when you use the same cartridge on another printer model. So, the overall cost per page can influence your printing budget significantly.

Quick Advice: –    The printer you get for the office should have a page yield well worth the company’s dime. Anything short of this will only drown the business in unnecessary printing costs. You can know the cost per page by taking the machine’s page yield and dividing it by the cost of the cartridge or toner.

Cartridge Compatibility

Always get quality compatible (remanufactured) cartridges for the printer as this will help slash the printing costs further. In most cases, the compatible cartridges will produce the same number of prints as the original, giving the same quality standards and all at a fraction of the price of the original. For instance, you can save around 85% of your printing costs by getting an LD’s Compatible TN880 toner cartridge at $17.99 that yields 12,000 pages. If you use compatible cartridges, you can be saving around .14 cents per page printed.

Know The Monthly Duty Cycle

To know the printer monthly duty cycle, just take note of the number of pages the machine prints in a month without breaking down. The office is less likely to reach the machine’s monthly duty cycle if it only prints every other day, so that should not be a concern when purchasing the printer. You should get a printer with a broad monthly duty cycle, especially if you have a workplace that does high volumes of prints. Overshooting the monthly duty cycle will only overwork the machines eventually wearing it out and slashing its lifespan. So, make sure you know the print volume your office does per month so that you get a printer that meets and goes beyond such a demand.

Factor In Paper Size

Most printers are designed with the business user in mind, and thus they can handle different paper sizes and types, from legal documents and cards to envelopes. However, certain basic compact models have a limited selection of paper sizes so remember to check the paper specs before you make any purchase.

Consider Automatic Duplex Printing

Dual-sided (duplex) printing is a fantastic option worth considering because it can help you save some money in the overall office printing costs. The conventional printers are feed sheets of paper manually when trying to print the other side of the paper. However, with the auto duplex printing function, you only set the machine to the “dual-sided printing,” and the printer automatically prints both sides of the paper.

Monochrome Or Color?

If your office does more of clean and clear prints, then a monochrome printer that does only black and white printing is the ideal choice. However, color printers are what you should consider if the office prints images in most of the documents. You will have to contend with dealing with two or four color cartridges, which is an added cost, but one that is economical compared to the long-term use of most color inkjet printers.

What Printer Size To Get

The size of the printer is a vital factor worth considering, which should be governed by the office size. Take not the machine’s dimensions so be sure that will fit its allocated space in the office. You can work with a good quality compact laser printer, but most of these are not very powerful thus they will not suffice for fast, high volume printing.

Check For Warranty

Most modern printers have a standard warranty lasting around a year, at the very least, from the date of purchase. However, other details governing the use of malfunction of the machine can be part of the warranty; therefore, know the specifics of the warranty to avoid unpleasant surprises. Some warranties may include tech support while others only cover the repair or replacement of defective parts. You can check out the printer’s webpage to know more about the specifications in your machine’s warranty.

Wired Or Wireless Networking?

Most modern printers offer wireless connectivity, and some even come with their printing apps to ease the printing process; therefore, making it possible to also do prints via tablets and smartphones. Nevertheless, it is still okay to work with printers that have a direct connection (USB or Ethernet), just as long as they offer excellent speeds.