For any organization, staying agile is of the highest priority – not just to stay ahead of the competition in terms of sales performance, but also to increase productivity levels, improve cost efficiency, ensure a smooth and consistent workflow, maximize available floor space, and project a professional image to clients.
While myriad factors need to be managed in order to keep the many bouncing balls of business in play, there is one very basic one that, if managed strategically, is absolutely guaranteed to help improve the speed, efficiency and workflow of your business – no matter what industry you’re in.
Implementation of the Right Storage and Workspace Systems
Implementing the right bespoke storage solutions and systems can have a dramatic effect on the way staff are able to work, the way inventory, tools and equipment on hand can be stored, and the smooth and efficient workflow of a business. In a nutshell, improving your storage systems can:
- Maximize valuable floor space (for workflow and storing inventory)
- Improve staff productivity, speed and morale
- Improve organizational flow
- Help your business project a professional image
Here at Workspace NW, we understand the key to being able to transform space (particularly when your floorspace is extremely limited) into the most efficient workplace is the use of our innovative modular units. By implementing a tailored approach for our clients, we’re able to create a solution for any and every application. We work with a huge range of clients across many industries, including:
- Manufacturing
- Government
- Electronic light assembly
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Vehicle servicing
- And so many more
So, how do we make sure our systems work for everyone? The answer is in knowing that one size can never really fit all.
Along with modular warehouse racking and shelving, one of the vital components of our workspace solutions is storage cabinets. If you and your employees are suffering from the negative effects of outdated and disorganized storage systems, our high-quality industrial steel storage cabinets could be the answer.
Can’t find critical items?
Running out of space but gaining inventory?
Losing valuable tools and inventory to theft, damage or contamination?
If you answer ‘yes’ to any of those questions, read on!
Choosing the Right Modular Steel Storage Cabinets
Those not in the know might think, “a cabinet is a cabinet, surely?” but that’s not the case. Every business or organization is different – with different needs, depending on not only the size of the business, but numerous other factors as well.
Choosing the right modular steel storage cabinet for your specific needs will be based on size, material, drawer capacity, mobility options, and budget.
Our consultants at Workspace NW are highly skilled and will help create the best bespoke modular storage systems for your individual needs, but with so much to consider, the following information will help make your decision easier.
What is an industrial cabinet?
An industrial cabinet is designed to store industrial materials, equipment and tools. It needs to offer maximum efficiency, be of durable construction and, preferably be flexible, customizable and modular – allowing for changes in inventory held, or floor space restrictions/enhancements.
The term “efficiency” really comes down to the individual business requirements, but covers things like being able to store items of different sizes, make maximum use of space (including vertical), protect contents from damage or contamination, and allow for quick and easy retrieval of tools/inventory. A robust storage system is absolutely essential, so you need to have a product that’s made for the job.
What is the difference between built in and modular cabinets?
Modular means that the product has been specifically designed to be utilized on its own, or as part of a larger system. A single module (one set of drawers) can be independently used, but will also easily slot into other modules of the same and different size and purpose. The advantage of having modular steel storage cabinets over built-in ones is that as requirements (size, staff, inventory) change, the storage system’s configuration, footprint and capacity can change, expand and modify without the added cost of replacing it in its entirety. Flexibility and agility are key in any business and that starts with flexible, mobile and agile modular storage solutions.
The importance of size, mobility and capacity
Organization is at the heart of a streamlined workspace. At its simplest, modular equals mobility, flexibility, and increased productivity, so when we consult with a client to create the most efficient system, we’re able to help them understand that if they implement well-considered storage components from the get-go, they can grow and adapt with the business’s changing needs.
Size: Modular cabinets, benches and racking means that when needs change (more inventory, reductions or increases in floor space and employees), you can add more components, adjust positioning, and utilize all-important vertical space without needing to build in more capacity.
Mobility: Installing mobile steel storage cabinets can have a huge effect on staff productivity and efficiency. Being able to easily re-configure a workspace can allow you to remain agile in the ability to streamline your processes – and in some cases, this can be a complete game-changer to the bottom line, aka profitability. As well as being able to optimize available space (and adapt when required) the ability to afford quick and easy access to tools, inventory or equipment in a changing environment is key.
What are the 2 construction types of cabinets?
Depending on what capacity you need, you might choose from a mobile cabinet with drawers, or one with adjustable shelves and/or racking.
Drawers: If you store a lot of smaller items, like tools and other valuable equipment, lockable drawers with easy access and a combination of both deep and shallow capacity are a good option. (The unit may also include additional adjustable shelves.)
Shelving/racking: Mobile cabinets with adjustable shelves/racking offer great versatility in terms of storing larger and/or odd-shaped items. The units can be reconfigured at any time to allow for different requirements and capacity.
Why steel cabinets?
Steel storage cabinets, such as the ones we recommend and sell at Workspace NW are corrosion and rust resistant, non-porous, and extremely robust and durable. These qualities are not only desirable, but necessary, when it comes to the protection of expensive tools and inventory in an industrial environment. Tried and trusted brands such as LISTA and VIDMAR offer an extensive range of modular steel storage cabinets in various heights and footprints.
What are steel cabinets made of?
In general, steel storage cabinets that are designed for heavy-duty use in an industrial setting are made of 12-16 gauge steel. They are then powder-coated; a robust finish that renders them resistant to water and other liquids, chemicals, chipping, peeling, cracking, corrosion and abrasion.
Budget considerations
A final but very important consideration is that of budget. Again, this is where the benefits of modular systems come in because not only are they mobile and versatile, you can also choose your configuration based on what you need at any given time.
A professional consultation with our experienced team at Workspace NW will help you to identify the best value for money solution based on your current requirements. We’ll also factor in available space and projections for expansion, to design the most affordable modular system for your needs.
Because we deal in trusted names, we can help you decide what technologies align most appropriately with your requirements – so you aren’t paying for expensive features you don’t need, but you’ll always get the quality, robustness and security you want.
Get in Touch
If your old storage system is holding you back and you’re ready to transform your workspace to be more productive, more efficient and more profitable, find out how Workspace NW can help! Get in touch and we’ll help you discover what areas will benefit from improvement. When we implement a modular storage system, it will optimize the way you work, and the way you store tools, equipment and consumables, to help take your business to the next level.
