When it comes to buying gifts this Christmas, there are a lot of wonderful gift ideas to choose from for the business professional in your life: calendars, chocolate, coffee, gift baskets, desk accessories, etc. But what if you are the sort of Santa that thinks outside the gift box. You might want to consider a gift that could be used daily. One that could keep them organized or make their job easier. If this is the case, McAleer's can help you find what you are looking for this holiday season. We stock a wide variety of office furniture that would suit any workspace or home office.
If the person on your shopping list could use a little organization in their life, new furniture could be just what they need. The first step towards organization is a great piece of office furniture, like a desk or filing cabinet. The extra storage will provide them with what they need to keep the clutter out of their lives. An ergonomic chair is also a great gift idea. Since the average worker spends 7 to 8 hours a day, five days a week in their office chair, providing them with comfort is the Christmas gift that keeps on giving. If you are shopping for a student, a laptop desk or bookcase will brighten their holiday. What if the person on your list just got a brand new TV? McAleer's also stocks a great selection of entertainment furniture. If you are still stumped on what to get, you can always purchase a gift certificate and let the person on your list pick something out for themselves.
This holiday season you don't have to get the boss another neck tie, you can get him something unexpected. Stop by one of our showrooms to see our great selection of in-stock office furniture. Worried you won't get it by Christmas? At McAleer's all in-stock furniture can be delivered locally the next day!
Merry Christmas and Happy Shopping!
Think "Up" not "Out"
At McAleer’s we know that organization is important to an efficient office. We also know that many businesses have limited space. When you need to store lots of files and paperwork, think “up” not “out”. Vertical files provide the most efficient approach to maximum storage capacity with a minimal footprint. HON’s 510 Series of commercial grade, full suspension file cabinets are the best long term archival filing storage system available. The 510 series features:
- High drawer sides that hold hanging folders without use of hangrails.
- Drawers that open fully to provide easy access to the entire drawer contents.
- 10 nylon rollers that allow smooth drawer action.
- An interchangeable core removable lock for security.
- It is available in two widths, for either letter- or legal-size documents.
- Its premium quality construction means strong, durable long-life cases.
- It is made from 30% post consumer materials with an aluminum handle and a baked enamel finish which is available in black, putty, or light grey.
At McAleer’s we offer the quality of HON’s 510 series of filing cabinets at prices lower than the “Big Box” stores, so if you are looking to organize your office with limited space and a limited budget, these file cabinets are the solution.
Quick and Easy Guide to Buying Office Furniture
According to the HON Company's research, office furniture purchases for most small and mid-sized businesses are handled by someone who is inexperienced in selecting furniture. Since most customers don't have the time to research each piece of furniture, how do you make sure that you or your company are making a smart purchase? Begin by asking yourself the following questions.
What space or spaces am I trying to furnish?
What furniture do I already have?
What is the budget?
These questions will help you get an idea of what you have to work with and help you decide if you need to create a new look for your office, or purchase products that match your existing furniture. Once you have decided what you need to purchase you can begin to consider the following guidelines to help you make the right choice.
Look for versatility. Buy furniture that can be moved and reconfigured easily and can adjust to your needs. This allows you to mix pieces into existing furniture arrangements.
Always buy quality. Material and craftsmanship are very import to consider. Look for pieces made of wood or long lasting veneers so that you will get longevity out of your purchase.
Keep ergonomics in mind. Good ergonomics make an employee feel better and more productive. Buy furniture that allows each employee to make adjustments according to his or her body style.
Make sure you have plenty of storage. Proper storage helps keep employees organized and work flowing more efficiently. Look for pieces that have filing and shelving features.
Go to McAleer's. We can help you find everything you need at the Gulf Coast lowest prices.
By following the guidelines you can make sure that you not only translate your needs into furniture that works for you, but also make a purchase that will last for years to come.
What space or spaces am I trying to furnish?
What furniture do I already have?
What is the budget?
These questions will help you get an idea of what you have to work with and help you decide if you need to create a new look for your office, or purchase products that match your existing furniture. Once you have decided what you need to purchase you can begin to consider the following guidelines to help you make the right choice.
Look for versatility. Buy furniture that can be moved and reconfigured easily and can adjust to your needs. This allows you to mix pieces into existing furniture arrangements.
Always buy quality. Material and craftsmanship are very import to consider. Look for pieces made of wood or long lasting veneers so that you will get longevity out of your purchase.
Keep ergonomics in mind. Good ergonomics make an employee feel better and more productive. Buy furniture that allows each employee to make adjustments according to his or her body style.
Make sure you have plenty of storage. Proper storage helps keep employees organized and work flowing more efficiently. Look for pieces that have filing and shelving features.
Go to McAleer's. We can help you find everything you need at the Gulf Coast lowest prices.
By following the guidelines you can make sure that you not only translate your needs into furniture that works for you, but also make a purchase that will last for years to come.
What Your Desk Says About You
For many people, a desk is much more than just a place to sit and do work. It is quite common for workers to spend more time at their desks in their office than sleeping in their bed at home, so it is inevitable that a desktop eventually starts to resemble the person who sits there. However, this tell-tale information could be defining who you are to your clients, coworkers, and your bosses, and not necessarily in a good way. Decide whether or not your desktop needs a makeover with these examples of what your desk decoration may be saying about you.
Desk Description: Filled with Photos
What It Says About You: Being family-oriented is a positive personality trait, but a desk covered with dozens of reminders of what awaits the worker after hours might make the worker appear less dedicated to his job and anxious to get home.
Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Companies that are very flexible when it comes to family obligations and that offer the option to telecommute at least a day or two each week are ideal for you if you're a family man or woman.
Desk Description: Bare Bones
What It Says About You: People with empty desks often aren't satisfied until a project is complete and off of their desks. Extremely interested in order, workers with bare bones desktops pride themselves on their clarity and efficiency. Unfortunately, without anything personal on the desk it may seem to others that the worker isn't committed to staying long enough to make personalizing their desk worthwhile.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Personality-driven professions like being a pharmaceutical rep or counseling would work well for you because being surrounded by a minimalist desk will enhance your pizzazz and allow the focus to stay on you.
Desk Description: Candyland
What It Says About You: A never-ending dish of candy is always an office favorite, and the provider is seen as welcoming, giving, and appreciative of friendship. Usually a team player, the candy giver can also be thought of as the office chatterbox, which may or may not be a good thing.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Your personality is as fantastic as the candy you conveniently leave out for anyone to grab, so communications is the perfect field for someone like you who would like to share their sweet tooth and their sweet personality with the world.
Desk Description: Potpourri Paradise
What It Says About You: Desktops full of fragrant bowls and sprays are usually created by people who believe themselves to be thoughtful and considerate people by sharing their smells with the office, but this practice usually stems from the opposite personality type. If you're a potpourri queen, you probably have a tendency to not be considerate of your clients and coworkers' opinions and desires, which frequently include a fragrance-free environment.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: If you need to be surrounded by scents, go straight to the source and work for the parent company of your favorite fragrance in any capacity, from sales to marketing. Or, perfume counters at department stores are excellent places to indulge and have career paths for management. Your obsession is sure to be appreciated by your bosses!
Desk Description: Gadgets Galore
What It Says About You: Lots of gadgets express that the individual is curious, up for a challenge, and quick to pick up new tasks and technology. Anything that adds spice to your everyday life is welcomed with open arms. However, if you're constantly playing with your gadgets or inviting coworkers to come play, you and your gadgets may be seen as an office distraction.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Technology-oriented or computer-driven jobs will keep your creative side satisfied.
Desk Description: Covered in Post-It Notes
What It Says About You: Trying to stay organized isn't quite the same as doing it, and an addiction to Post-It Notes represents someone who is a hard worker but could use a couple of classes on time management, organization, and working smart and not hard.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Anything streamlined and with a predictable routine that won't have you reaching for your pad of Post-Its to jot down any caveats, like being a medical technician or a bank teller.
Desk Description: Full of Flowers and Plants
What It Says About You: Being able to keep green things alive under the harsh florescent office lights is a sign of being very nurturing and attentive to detail.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Positions where you're able to take advantage of your comforting capabilities, like as a social services worker or as a daycare professional, will fit your personality well.
Desk Description: Full of Organizational Files and Folders
What It Says About You: Having information accessible in seconds is crucial for the organized worker, who loves control, order, and who also efficiently prioritizes everything until the job is done.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Bookkeeping, auditing, or anything else where you're crunching numbers, compartmentalizing everything, and staying on track of tons of tiny pieces of information is an excellent option for you.
Desk Description: Inspirational and Motivational
What It Says About You: People who surround themselves by lots of positivity are often aspiring to be leaders and tend to be more productive due to their positive attitude.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Look into upper management positions or consider teaching to take full advantage of your healthy outlook on life and ability to encourage others.
Desk Description: Decorated with Accolades and Awards
What It Says About You: Being proud of past achievements is one thing, but a desktop covered with them is a bit much. Lots of personal awards may come across as braggadocios and aloof, even if the awards are related to the field.Jobs That Gel With Your Style: Some professions are based off of the fact that you must prove yourself worthy to the client, so for places that may encourage you to flaunt your accomplishments consider sales, legal fields, and perhaps the entertainment industry.
http://jobs.aol.com/articles/2009/06/28/what-your-desk-says-about-you/
Open vs. Closed Work Environments
One of the first considerations for any business' office is whether they want to have closed offices or an open plan layout. Both approaches have pros and cons so businesses must consider carefully which option is most suitable for their particular needs.
Open work environments are often thought of as one giant room with no boundaries or walls separating employees. Although that can be an example of an open work environment, that doesn't mean it's the only option. Office layouts that are classified as "open" usually refer to a work setting that fosters flowing communication. This type of environment allows employees to receive input from colleagues, projects can run more smoothly, and it fosters informal conversations that build trust for others' judgement calls and expertise. Although many employees prefer closed workspaces, they can sometimes work more productively in open ones.
Closed office spaces allow staff a greater amount of privacy than an open plan office layout. They have the chance to work in peace and quiet, keeping them focused on the tasks at hand without getting overly distracted by what their colleagues are doing. Closed offices also offer space for employees to think or be creative without too much interruption. However, some people feel that closed offices, whether individual or for small teams of employees, promote a culture of individualism rather than teamwork, and would prefer an open plan office layout.
To get the best of both worlds, you can offer an array of different work settings. You can use panel systems to offer workspaces with privacy without fully restricting the free flow of conversation between employees, and by grouping employees with similar jobs, you can build clusters that have the feel of an open plan.
Open work environments are often thought of as one giant room with no boundaries or walls separating employees. Although that can be an example of an open work environment, that doesn't mean it's the only option. Office layouts that are classified as "open" usually refer to a work setting that fosters flowing communication. This type of environment allows employees to receive input from colleagues, projects can run more smoothly, and it fosters informal conversations that build trust for others' judgement calls and expertise. Although many employees prefer closed workspaces, they can sometimes work more productively in open ones.
Closed office spaces allow staff a greater amount of privacy than an open plan office layout. They have the chance to work in peace and quiet, keeping them focused on the tasks at hand without getting overly distracted by what their colleagues are doing. Closed offices also offer space for employees to think or be creative without too much interruption. However, some people feel that closed offices, whether individual or for small teams of employees, promote a culture of individualism rather than teamwork, and would prefer an open plan office layout.
To get the best of both worlds, you can offer an array of different work settings. You can use panel systems to offer workspaces with privacy without fully restricting the free flow of conversation between employees, and by grouping employees with similar jobs, you can build clusters that have the feel of an open plan.
Why Your Office Layout Is Important To Your Business
A well planned office does more than just create a good initial impression on your clients, it also improves the productivity and attitudes of your valued employees. And why shouldn't it? Your company is a place where your employees meet day-to-day to engage in activities that help the company grow and flourish. The space in which they work should encourage their productivity and allow them to perform tasks in an efficient manner.
Too often today employees are accommodating their workspace instead of their workspace accommodating them. It is sad to think of all that extra effort that could be used in company projects, client meetings and everyday workloads. Your company space needs a balance of functionality and creativity to help your business thrive. By creating a good layout for your office that gives your employees a place to be productive, you can achieve just that.
So, where do you start? First consider what type of setup is best for your office. This should be based on the type of business you do. Systems furniture is a great option because it can provide efficiency and flexibility for any type of business. According to The Hon Company, panel systems today are more sophisticated than they have ever been, delivering affordable, flexible office solutions that save space with a variety of stylish and functional features. With all the available options out there for organizing the layout of your office, it is easy to find an office layout that works for you. You can choose from an open or closed work environment that can be moved and reconfigured easily. Take into account work flow, number of employees, and the way in which they communicate when deciding on a layout. You can also contact a McAleer's sales representative to discuss your options. by choosing your layout carefully you can maximize you company's productivity as well as ensure that your day to day operations will run smoothly.
Too often today employees are accommodating their workspace instead of their workspace accommodating them. It is sad to think of all that extra effort that could be used in company projects, client meetings and everyday workloads. Your company space needs a balance of functionality and creativity to help your business thrive. By creating a good layout for your office that gives your employees a place to be productive, you can achieve just that.
So, where do you start? First consider what type of setup is best for your office. This should be based on the type of business you do. Systems furniture is a great option because it can provide efficiency and flexibility for any type of business. According to The Hon Company, panel systems today are more sophisticated than they have ever been, delivering affordable, flexible office solutions that save space with a variety of stylish and functional features. With all the available options out there for organizing the layout of your office, it is easy to find an office layout that works for you. You can choose from an open or closed work environment that can be moved and reconfigured easily. Take into account work flow, number of employees, and the way in which they communicate when deciding on a layout. You can also contact a McAleer's sales representative to discuss your options. by choosing your layout carefully you can maximize you company's productivity as well as ensure that your day to day operations will run smoothly.
Elements of a Modern TV Console
McAleer's can furnish more than just your office--we also sell entertainment furniture by Martin Home Furnishings.
Below are the special features that Martin offers in their TV consoles:
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1. Hardwood Solids and Veneers--Constructed with hardwood solids and veneers to stand the test of time.
2. Center Channel Speaker Compartment--Fully finished compartment is suitable for housing speakers, additional components or gaming consoles.
3. Easy Wire Access System--Includes a soft-close hinged door on the top of the console that provides access to cables, wiring and the back of electronic components. With this system there is no need to move the console or the flat-panel television to install home theater components.
4. Convection Ventilation--Draws in air through the bottom of the console and pushes hot air, generated by components, out the top (on back of console).
5. Tempered Glass--The glass in the doors is tempered for safety.
6. Storage Drawers--Media storage drawers have adjustable and removeable dividers to accommodate various media.
7.Cool-Tech Shelving--These shelves are designed to store standard sized home theater components. The sides of the shelves are recessed so they serve as wire and cable raceways. The shelves also facilitate airflow through the console to help cool your home theater components.
Below are the special features that Martin offers in their TV consoles:
1. Hardwood Solids and Veneers--Constructed with hardwood solids and veneers to stand the test of time.
2. Center Channel Speaker Compartment--Fully finished compartment is suitable for housing speakers, additional components or gaming consoles.
3. Easy Wire Access System--Includes a soft-close hinged door on the top of the console that provides access to cables, wiring and the back of electronic components. With this system there is no need to move the console or the flat-panel television to install home theater components.
4. Convection Ventilation--Draws in air through the bottom of the console and pushes hot air, generated by components, out the top (on back of console).
5. Tempered Glass--The glass in the doors is tempered for safety.
6. Storage Drawers--Media storage drawers have adjustable and removeable dividers to accommodate various media.
7.Cool-Tech Shelving--These shelves are designed to store standard sized home theater components. The sides of the shelves are recessed so they serve as wire and cable raceways. The shelves also facilitate airflow through the console to help cool your home theater components.
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| http://www.martinfurniture.com/ |
Decorating Your Office For Success
Decorating an office can be a delicate balancing act, especially if you are decorating on a budget. If your office is used to host clients and other visitors, it is important to create and maintain a professional look while still creating an inviting and pleasant atmosphere. Perception is everything in the business world and an office that is well decorated will create the look of a successful company.
A well decorated office will enhance your professional image as well as reflect the company’s standards. First impressions count and the first thing a client or potential client sees when they step into your office is your reception area. If clients come to your office on a regular basis, don’t overlook the furniture in this area. Mismatched tables and chairs tend to make any space look cheap and thrown together, so make sure your reception furniture has a cohesive look. This is also true if you entertain clients in your personal office. Provide them with comfortable side chairs or a sofa that unifies the look of your office. When choosing sofas and chairs for your office, remember that light colors can show wear more easily. You may want to consider going with darker colors or patterns.
Bare walls can give an office a dull, unlived-in feel, and that energy can affect the mood of your staff and clients. Choosing tasteful artwork will enhance your décor as well as give it a finished look. Making a personal statement while decorating your office may clash with company policy so it is important to avoid controversial wall hangings or décor and instead find items that are appropriate. The artwork you choose to enhance your walls is more than simple decoration. It gives clients an idea of your company’s philosophy and culture. Clean, crisp black-and-white photography can indicate your commitment to detail; bold colorful modern pieces may denote your talent for innovation; and classic paintings with ornate frames can highlight your dedication to tradition. Including plants in your office can also greatly improve the environment. If natural sunlight is unavailable in your office, silk greenery is a good alternative. Adding an rug in your reception area can provide color and can also protect carpeting in high traffic areas. Tabletop lamps can also help pull your look together and are recommended to reduce eyestrain. They can also add some flair to an workstation or reception area. Choose models that fit into your overall style, whether your office has a traditional or modern feel.
When furnishing your office, it is important to remember that the finishing touches are what gives the office a polished look. McAleer’s has everything to help you create a well decorated office at a price you can afford. Lamps, artwork, silk greenery, side tables and guest chairs—we have all the accessories you need to complete your room. Our selection is continuously changing so stop by one of our showrooms to see our newest arrivals and talk to one of our designers about how to decorate your office for success.
Remember Why We Celebrate
IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America
hen in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security...To read the rest of the Declaration please visit http://www.ushistory.org/declaration/document/
Happy Independence Day!!!
Protecting Your Assets
Whether you’re one of the growing number of consumers deciding to keep cash or other valuables in your home rather than a bank, or a business that needs a secure place to store items like data files and important paperwork, a fireproof file cabinet can be essential in the event of an emergency. You never know when you will be the victim of a house fire or another natural or economic disaster. Your critical business documents and personal treasures need the protection of a reliable fireproof cabinet. Everyday metal files may not burn, but they will directly conduct a fire’s heat inside, where your records will ignite. In a sense, your metal files become incinerators. According to FireKing research, 59% of customers who purchase standard steel filing cabinets believe that those files are protecting their records, but everyday files are much easier to break into or damage. If you are looking to protect your assets a fireproof file can give you the security you need.
FireKing fireproof file cabinets provide the very highest level of protection from fires, impact damage, theft and even explosions. They offer a full line of file cabinets to fit every filing requirement, every space constraint, and every budget and have developed the absolute best records protection available on the market. If your business suffered a fire, could your staff remember or recreate all of the information you have stored in your files? If your house suffered a natural disaster, could you ever replace the pictures or personal documents you lost? For securing you valuables and your peace of mind, FireKing files are the best records protection you can buy.
FireKing Turtle files are easily affordable because of their small size. At a space saving depth of 22”, Turtle files are prefect for small businesses or home offices. Available in several models, Turtles offer UL 1-hour fire protection with impact, both letter and legal size filing and each is equipped with a standard 4-pin key lock. No other 22” deep file gives you as much protection as the extra tough FireKing Turtle. Available in a neutral parchment color, it is perfect for you home ore office and provides a lifetime of security at an affordable price. When an emergency occurs, you will know that your important documents or valuables are always safe.
For more information on fireproof files please contact one of our sales representatives. 251-476-8555 or 850-479-1090
Filing Cabinets: The Office Essential
Regardless of the type of business you are in, you probably have an office, even if it is at home, and one thing that all businesses have in common is the need for storage. Filing cabinets are a must have piece of business office furniture. Owning or working at a business, you know that there are important documents and files that must be kept for reference, tax purposes and the daily functioning of your business. With numerous shapes, styles, and sizes, there are a variety of choices to help customize your filing system.
In order to find the right file for you ask yourself these simple questions so that you can choose the features you find most necessary for your cabinet.
How much space do you have? This will help you decide between vertical or lateral file cabinets.
Do you need the file to be mobile and easily accessible from anywhere in the office? If this is the case, be sure to look for a file with casters so it can be wheeled around.
Are you concerned about the overall well being of your documents? Fireproof filing cabinets provide the perfect solution to keeping your important files safe.
What level of privacy do you desire? You can keep your personal information extra secure with a locking cabinet.
Do you prefer a wood or steel cabinet? Filing cabinets are available in commercial grade steel, wood or laminate with an assortment of available finishes to match any décor.
Filing cabinets are the ultimate way to stay organized for both the home and the office and can be stylish as well as functional. They are essential to every business. McAleer's has the lowest prices on HON commercial grade files, as well as a great selection of wood and laminate files. For those on a budget we also stock “experienced” files that have been pre-owned. Stop by our showroom or shop online at http://www.mcaleers.com/ for details.
Making the Most of Your Office Space
Whether it's a personal or commercial office space, the office layout should be functional as well as stylish. The key to maintaining a functional work area is to maximize the available space to its full potential. When it comes to effective space planning there are many furniture options that can provide ample desk space without consuming too much of the room.
An L-shaped desk is an excellent desk design for comfort and convenience. L-shaped desks conserve space, allowing the corner of the room to be utilized in greater capacity. With a computer desk on one side of the L and a flat surface as a workspace on the other; this shape provides the versatility of two desks in one. A corner desk provides similar convenience. However, many consumers are apprehensive about purchasing this type of desk because they believe they will not have as many design options available to them. This is a misconception because corner desks offer most of the features available in other types of desks including built in shelving and lighting, keyboard trays, and storage space. With all of the available design options combined with the compactness of L-shaped and corner desks, you can find one that suits both your style and décor.
A credenza is another great space saving option because it can be used as a desk, writing table, or flat surface to hold equipment. In many cases, a credenza may not be as deep as a traditional desk and therefore will take up less of the room. In cases where space is extremely limited an armoire workstation is a remarkable space saving solution. Computer armoires allow you to close up the cabinet for a neat and clean appearance, while offering a large and spacious swing out work surface when needed. Many armoires are made in beautiful wood finishes that add elegance and style to a room while still providing a practical way to store your computer and accessories. If you use a laptop as your primary computer, laptop armoires are also available. They are great for home offices and feature drop down desk tops and pull-out printer shelves. They come in many different finishes that will match any of your current furnishings.
With all the available space saving furniture that McAleers' offers, it should be easy to find one to suit your needs. A well planned office will not only make your work more efficient, but it will also allow you to make the most of your office space.
Visit http://www.mcaleers.com/ for more great space saving furniture!
Go Green with Your Office Furniture!
It’s likely that by now you’ve heard the term ‘green living.’ It includes recycling, using fewer disposable goods, composting waste and many similar habits. But have you considered that certain office furniture pieces are more ‘green’ than others? Most office furniture is made from solid wood or other types of composite and pressed wood. While composite woods can give off harmful vapors called volatile organic compounds, the manufacture of solid wood furniture contributes to the destruction of rainforests and wildlife habitats. Fortunately, if you are committed to creating a green office—whether at home or at your place of work there are a variety of things you can do when purchasing office furniture. Just remember the three R’s: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.
REDUCE: Whether a piece of furniture is made from wood, metal, cloth, or whatever else, there are earth-friendly options. When purchasing wood furniture, look for products manufactured from domestically-grown wood and have been logged according to forestry guidelines for sustainability. These guidelines are designed to not deplete the forests and help to reduce the impact on the environment. Many furniture manufacturers are taking steps to make sure that all lumber and veneers used in their products are from sustainable U.S.
It is also important to think about the packaging that’s used to ship office furniture. If packing materials end up in a landfill, the time it takes for them to break down more than a lifetime. Manufacturers such as HON, Allsteel, and Jasper Desk have begun using cartons made of recycled materials and wrapping their furniture in reusable blankets instead of corrugated materials.
REUSE: One of the most environmentally smart things that you can do is reuse. Used furniture is great option because it encourages the reduction of waste. Not only does it cost less, but buying previously owned furniture saves the resources and energy of manufacturing and transporting new furniture. McAleer’s has the Gulf Coast
RECYCLE: You may also want to consider purchasing products which utilize recycled materials in their construction. Recycled materials require less processing and fewer resources. In making a decision to purchase this type of furniture, you are not only provided with quality furniture, but also have a positive impact on the environment. Companies such as HON, Allsteel, and National Office Furniture use recycled materials in the construction of their products.
"Experienced" Office Furniture
In today’s economic climate everyone is looking for ways to save money. Whether you're an office manager, a new business owner, or someone furnishing your home office, you know that it is important to budget. That's why more and more people are turning to "experienced" office furniture. Although McAleer’s has the Gulf Coast
Buying used office furniture does not mean sacrificing quality for cost. If you shop conscientiously, it's possible to purchase used office furniture that will not only look good, but will also be accepted by employees and customers alike. Used furniture is usually 30 to 50% cheaper and allows you to purchase quality made pieces at a price you can afford. Although you may not have as many options with used furniture, you can easily find pieces to suit your needs.
So, how do you find the best bargains in used office furniture? Look for pieces that are made of solid materials and are in good working condition. When buying used office furniture, keep in mind that you might not be able to find the exact color or design you had in mind, but it is more important that the furniture is of quality construction. The key point to remember is it's just like buying a used car: you must accept the color, appearance, and size, and hopefully the money you will save will be worth your flexibility. Most “experienced” office furniture pieces have only been used for a few years (or less) and have minimal wear and tear. Once the bubble wrap is taken off and the price tag is removed, many people cannot tell the difference between a new desk and a slightly used desk. You can also look for scratch and dent furniture which is sold at a discounted price due to its cosmetic appearance. Scratch and dent pieces are usually new but may have a scratch or minor flaw that does not interfere with their functionality whatsoever. Rental returns are another cost saving option. These items have be previously rented for months at a time and then returned after they were no longer needed. Since these items have been used they can not be sold as new, but are usually still in “like new” condition.
Where can you purchase "experienced" furniture? McAleer’s of course! Stop by one of our showrooms to see what we have in stock. We regularly buy truckloads of furniture from New York
Finding the Best Office Chair for Your Money
Furnishing your office with chairs that are both comfortable and affordable can require quite a bit of consideration. While price is a major deciding factor in choosing the right chair, you should resist the urge to make it your decisive factor. Comfort should be your top priority. The average office worker spends seven to eight hours a day, five days a week, sitting and working at a computer. This type of continuous sitting has led to an increase in neck and back pain among office employees. According to Allsteel, a chair that isn’t adjusted properly can lead to fatigue, restricted circulation, swelling, numbness, and pain. In selecting office chairs (for yourself or an entire office), you're profoundly affecting the quality of the everyday work routine which is why you should consider buying an ergonomic chair.
Ergonomic chairs are designed to prevent desk and computer workers from developing injuries. An ergonomic chair will have an adjustable back (one that can easily switch to low, mid-level, and high back positions), seat, and armrests, as well as the swivel feature, to allow the person to fine-tune alignment and support for arms, legs, neck, and back.
All ergonomic chairs are not the same — it's important to test different chairs to see which model works best for a particular body and the office setup. Stop by either of our locations and try out some of the chairs on our showroom floor. Be sure to pull each one up to a desk that has an adjustable keyboard tray to see how the chair might work with a computer setup. When it comes to purchasing a chair, the best chair you can get for your money is the one that provides you with the most comfort.
