Using Binders and Index Tabs to Get Organized

We have papers to organize no matter what we do. Students, parents, managers, employees, retirees, and small business owners all have documents that they need to keep organized and accessible. One of the simplest and most economical means of getting organized and staying that way is through the use of binders and tabs.

Clear view binders allow you to customize the cover and spine so that you can be as creative as you like while organizing your important papers. Dividing your documents into binders based on document type will help you to feel more secure since you will know exactly where all of your documents are. For example, instead of always wondering where you put the warranty for the TV or the recipe for your favorite cookies, you can organize these types of documents into binders for quick and easy reference.

In addition to simply storing your documents in folders, you can also divide documents into sections. Instead of just putting all your recipes into a binder, you can subdivide your information using index tabs.

Index tabs come in many different varieties. Types differ based on user needs. For example, some index tabs are designed for use with copy machines and printers so that you can run the whole sheet through the printer or copier to create tabs that look very professional. These are sometimes called Copier Tabs. Other index tabs are created for individual use and have printable tab inserts that you can write by hand or run through your printer for a more uniform look.

Before you begin organizing your documents into binders and sections, take a little time to think about how you or others will access your information. Think about the answers you and others will seek when going to your binders and index tabs. Binders and index tabs should be chosen so that they are easy to navigate. Careful organizational choices at this point will make finding information much quicker and easier later on. This is especially critical if you are using binders and index tabs to organize information at work. You don’t want to lose time and productivity-especially if you have customers waiting.

The beauty of clear view binders and index tabs lies in their versatility and limitless ability to be customized. Binders and index tabs are often used as follows:

1.Business people

• Managing invoices, receipts, and contact lists
• User guides and training manuals
• Employee records including write-ups and emergency contact information
• HAZMAT and OSHA documentation
• Emergency Procedures
• Opening and closing checklists

2.Education

• Lessons and ideas
• Recordkeeping including grades, attendance, and behavior
• Managing school club information such as minutes and member lists
• Portfolios
• Notes, assignments, and homework
• Copies of correspondence

3.Home

• Immunization records and other healthcare documents
• Report cards and other educational records
• Budgets, credit card numbers, and other financial papers
• Product guides and warranties
• Critical numbers and procedures for the babysitter
• House and car repair records and maintenance logs

Binders and index tabs are a simple and powerful organizational solution for most people. They are easy to update as change occurs. With such an affordable and easy to use tool, we can all become better organized.

Jeff McRitchie is the director of marketing for MyBinding.com He writes extensively on topics related to Binders, Binding Supplies, Index Tabs, Binding Machines,Binding Covers, Laminators, Laminating Pouches and more.