Time Wasted at Work Hunting for Lost and Misplaced Items

When it comes to wasting time on the job, many of us can cite computer time, phone calls and long, unproductive meetings as primary activities that such up hours during the work day. There are other inefficiencies, however, and one of the ways that time can be wasted at work (and something we actually have some control over) is hunting and searching for lost or misplaced items.

Organization can be more than just a character trait. Having systems for files, papers, books, notes, etc. can save a lot of time and money when it comes time to lay hands on them. This is not to pick on those who keep messier desks or workspaces--sometimes those seemingly messy people know exactly where things are. The concern is not how tidy or messy things are, but whether items can be located easily.

Consider a situation where a customer has come in to pick up an item that has been ordered. Over fifteen minutes of two employees' staff time is spent searching for the item and it cannot be located. Over thirty minutes has been wasted. The customer leaves and has to return another day after more time has been spent to locate the item. Unable to collect the payment for the item until it is located, the company is out this revenue for the time being and there is a good chance that the customer may not return which would mean no return sales. You can see how if this happens a few times a day, quite a lot of revenue can be lost and it can add to the expenses/cost of doing business.

By keeping accurate track of things in the workplace, you can not only make doing business more efficient but it influences the bottom line as well. Whether employees are searching for a stapler or a lost invoice, it costs money and time every time an item goes missing. Set up workable systems and designate areas for specific items. It also helps to keep things reasonably tidy and organized so that it is easier and more efficient to move around in the workplace.