Just like a cog of a clock, there are several moving pieces that make up a functioning business, and if one of these parts break, it can cause serious issues in ensuring the business keeps ticking over. Some parts are inevitably bigger and often get focused on as priorities; for example marketing and HR. Yet, in every business, there are the little things that do their part to contribute to business success.
One such area, underrated and neglected, are office supplies, and whilst it may not seem like an intriguing or crucial part of budget management, office supplies can turn into a great expense if you are not managing their purchase. In this feature, we explore how effective office supply management will positively impact your business:
Eliminates Interruptions to Employee Productivity
Maintaining the efficiency of office operations is conducive to business success, and the difference between smooth workflows and erratic, chaotic work processes could be that one working pen or replacement toner cartridge! Interruptions in the workflow to locate or purchase necessary office supplies can have a serious, and often unbeknown, impact on employee productivity. In extreme cases, if office supplies are not effectively managed, it can result in a loss of sales. Ensuring your team is always able to get the stock they need can ensure your employees remain focused on the task at hand, eliminating unnecessary interruptions that can eat up time in a working day.
Providing the Right Brand Image
Consumer trust is sure to be diminished if the server they are dealing with cannot even find a pen for them to sign their name on contracts, or the like. Companies that have everything in order, with the use of labels, forms, and document managers, give the appearance (at the very least) of being more organised and thus, more trustworthy. These little things do add up when it comes to customer perception of the professionalism and efficiency of your business.
Reducing the Bottom Line
Managing your office supplies can save your business money in the long-run if purchased from the right supplier. Employees can quickly ‘eat’ through reams of paper and pens without even realising it and perhaps be ordering the least competitive option which assists the supplier but not your business . When employees have to make the mad dash for necessary supplies, your business can be severely overcharged for basic supplies at retail price. Considered approaches to office supplies can ensure that you can reap the benefits of focussed core list purchases; can understand about supply usage (and monitor why and when this fluctuates), as well as providing you with a predictable cost of this side of the business expenditure.
Offers Added Benefits
Buying in bulk from suppliers can also extend additional benefits to your business. Sourcing suppliers who offer alternative services such as printing, recycling and marketing materials can add great bonuses that may be required by your business. Many also offer a rewards programme that provide discounts and rebates to those who are frequent customers or buy in bulk. Considering you’ve completed thorough competitive research, or hire someone who will, you can source a supplier that will offer you a great deal on all the quality products your business like to utilise on a day-to-day basis.
A worthwhile office supplier will provide you with a service that allows you to easily manage and interpret your office supply expenditure, as well as allowing you to re-order agreed stocks as and when you need it through their order history sections. Companies such as these usually boast great customer service experiences, so in the rare cases where something goes wrong with your order, you can rest-assured that mistakes are accounted for and rectified. A supplier worth their salt usually has a great reputation, so assessing reviews is always recommended before pursuing a supplier relationship. Additionally, utilising the services of procurement specialists can help you create the best and most cost-effective supplier relationships by benefitting from better deals through their established supplier network. We’ve worked with many companies to reduce their expenditure on office supplies, case studies of which can also be found on our website. To find out more about how our office supplies services will save your business money and improve your business operations, get in touch with us today.
Article by: Keith Copestake