This month, we’ve discussed taking inventory of things we own, use and have at home. What about the office?
Whether you are a worker or a business owner, taking inventory at work is a critical component when considering sustaining work flow. How often do you take inventory or pay attention to what you use within your office environment?
Looking back at my days living/working in Montreal, I laugh! After selling my car in Southern California upon moving to Montreal, I opted for an urban lifestyle. I walked to/from my office, I walked or took the metro to shop. I set-up important personal items in the office and didn’t give it much thought. Why did I do this? Access – quick and easy access for me, vs. the hassle of going to/fro on public transportation. This same principle applies if you have a long commute, or if you work out of your car. If someone needed to access information or items I had transported, how would they know unless I told them?
Taking inventory includes Itemization of what is used includes various items. Actual physical inventory – parts, equipment, furniture, supplies, product, intellectual property and access to digital assets. Personal assets/documents of importance are also items to consider when documenting what is in your office, what is used by employees, what is in storage (on or off-site).
I’m often asked how often we “should” do this and how should we do this? If this is the 1st time for you/your firm, establish this as an important priority and get a date on the calendar. Set it up as a project, assign someone as the responsible party and consider taking a video and/or drafting a written inventory. It is wise to store this information with other sensitive/important and/or insurance documents. Some firms update in concert with expenditures over a certain dollar value as a part of their purchasing process. Some firms take inventory prior to their year-end in conjunction with tax preparation. Make it easy for you/your team. Rest easy knowing you have proactive documentation of what’s important to you and for your business.
We proactively help you assess your situation in business and home and explore ways for you to protect what is important to you by asking questions. What is your risk? Your plan? Are you ready to be ready? We’re here when you are.
Contact us to learn more about how we work with individuals, business owners and employees via Email or online @ The Living Planner #ExpectTheUnexpected #CareForPeopleCareForBusiness