Acrimet 3-Tier Hangable Plastic File Holder

Computers have eliminated much of the paperwork that was part of every office environment, but that doesn’t mean you still don’t have some paper files. Some industries rely heavily on paper documents, including healthcare and education. Whatever profession you’re in, though, chances are you have a need to manage some paper documents.

The right document organizer can make all the difference. The first step, though, is to reduce your reliance on paper as much as possible. If you can make a process electronic, it will save you time and space. Professional organizers recommend reducing clutter like paperwork as soon as it comes through the door. This means sorting all paper mail, tossing any items you won’t need into the trash and immediately depositing the rest into whatever organization process you have set up.

That’s where a good file management system comes in. Whether it’s a file cabinet, a desktop sorter or an accordion-style carrying case, you need somewhere to put your paperwork. Your choice of organizer depends heavily on how you’ll be using it. A file cabinet is for long-term storage of numerous documents, but you can find smaller ones if the volume of files is smaller.

For keeping just a few documents close by at a time, though, the best option is likely a desktop sorter with just a few compartments. This is a great way to keep those must-do items close at hand. You can even hang a sorter on your wall or at the entrance to your office space for others to place incoming documents or pick up outgoing paperwork.

Portable accordion-style organizers come in handy for those who take their documents on the go. Some crafters even use them for storing supplies to take to retreats and conferences. If you opt for a portable organizer, consider that you can find some that are water-resistant, which will help if you ever find yourself rushing to your vehicle in an unexpected rainstorm. The key is to identify your own unique needs and find the organizer that best meets them.

• Most file organizers are built to hold 8.5-by-11-inch sheets of paper and file folders. You can fold your legal pages to fit, but if you’ll need to store larger pages often, look for an organizer that can accommodate file folders in the largest size you typically use.
• It’s important to consider the space your organizer will take up. A file cabinet will consume floor space, while a desk organizer will make a section of your desk unusable. You can find some organizers that hang on the wall to keep your desk and floor clear.
• Closely examine the compartments your organizer provides. With a file cabinet, you have the space to include a large number of hanging file folders, making it easy to keep everything separated. With a smaller desk organizer, you’ll be limited as to how many documents you can hold.
• If you need to keep your paperwork secure, look for a file organizer that locks. Make sure you have a safe place to store your key.
• Students can benefit from document management, too. Look for an organizer that’s portable enough to take to class or study sessions if you need it or, at the very least, one you can cart back and forth easily if you need it.
• If you opt for a portable file management solution, make sure the handle and exterior are sturdy enough to last, even once the organizer is packed with items. One that’s water-resistant and tear-proof will come in handy while you’re rushing from place to place.
• Each person’s organizational needs differ. A file management system that allows you to customize it to fit your own needs will be a big help.