Essential office supplies depend on the work, team size, workplace and local requirements. A generic shopping list is only a starting point. Prioritise safety, ergonomics, collaboration and availability before comfort items and consumables.
A good desk and a comfortable (ergonomic) office chair
It is desirable to create an ergonomically responsible workplace for each employee. Choose a good (adjustable) desk and take the time to choose a comfortable office chair. It is one of the most important parts of an efficient office.
A laptop with an extra monitor
This is true for most people and companies, because few entrepreneurs can do their work without a laptop. But as mentioned earlier, an ergonomic working posture is important. Most people are bent over when working on a laptop. This is not good for your back and neck. It is therefore advisable to purchase an extra screen so that you sit upright in front of your screen. It’s even better to put that screen on a stand riser and put your notebook on a laptop stand. A laptop is also ideal for working at home and/or on location.
Software and Systems
Some small business owners need access to word processing, spreadsheet and email management applications, while others need additional software specific to a particular business. Make a list of the software and systems you need, to run your office as efficiently as possible.
Fast Internet access
The days of working with a dial-up connection are long gone. In order to work efficiently online, a fast and wireless internet connection is essential. For many companies, fiber optic internet has already become the standard.
Telephone and/or VoIP
With VoIP technology, Internet-based phone services and mobile phones, you may not need a traditional landline phone. However, access to a phone service is usually desired and needed when working in the office.
Backup station or personal server
Once your office is operational, you should have a plan for backing up and protecting your data. You can use cloud-based backup services to automatically copy your files, but it’s also a good idea to consider internal backup. External drives and personal servers are relatively affordable and can save your business in the event of a computer failure.
Adequate lighting
Just as a good office chair is important for an ergonomic office, so is having sufficient light. You don’t want you and your employees to suffer from headaches and tired eyes. Make sure there is enough daylight in the office so that there are no problems with reading.
Printer or all-in-one printer
If you have a paperless office, maybe you can get away without a printer. However, there may be certain situations where you need to scan, fax and even make copies. If this is common in your business, look for multifunctional machines that can handle all these tasks.
Paper shredder
A shredder is a must for destroying sensitive and confidential information in your company. And for any other piece of non-sensitive paper, it is advisable to buy a recycling bin.
File cabinet or filing cabinet
Even if you strive for a paperless existence in the office, there are always some paper documents that you need to keep hard copy. The best place to store these documents and find them later is in a filing cabinet.
Facility articles
Think of safety items such as a fire extinguisher and dressing drum, coat racks and electrical appliances (coffee machine). But also, notepads and pens, adhesive tape, staplers and paper clips should not be missing. Finally, to get a look that suits your brand, you need to invest in a number of plants, paintings and accessories.
Manage inventory and lifecycle
Set minimum stock, an owner and a reorder point for frequently used items. Record equipment, warranties, maintenance, safe disposal and spare parts. Evaluate purchase price together with energy, consumables, repair and useful life.
