When you run a workshop, it makes sense to be as efficient as possible to keep cost low by creating a productive environment and keeping energy use as minimal as possible, as it can make a difference to your profit margins. When a workshop runs efficiently, all tools and machinery are well maintained, again saving you money on repairs. If you want to improve the cost-effectiveness of your workshop, this guide gives you some tips.
- Be Organized
In a workshop, there are tools, machinery, and specialist equipment that workers use every day. Having the space well-organized means that people can find what they need quickly, making them more productive. A good way to organize a workshop is to have a place for everything. A strong set of shelving and racking for the walls will hold many different tools, as will storage in the ceiling spaces.
Each member of staff should have a workspace that is set up for them to do their job easier, with all the materials they need within reach. This will stop time being wasted by them having to walk to the other side of the workshop, for example, to get materials or kit.
- Clean Environment
Keeping workspaces clean helps to keep things organized and productive, but helps to keep staff safe in their work environment. For example, it is vital to have efficient ways to remove dust or the extraction and removal of harmful fumes.
Keep things clean and tidy by having a set cleaning routine, as not only will this make sure the workshop is a safer place to be, but it also gives you the opportunity to check over machinery to keep it in good condition, lessening the chances of repairs and keeping costs to a minimum.
- Lighting
Having good lighting in a workshop helps with productivity as it makes it easy for staff to see what they are working on, makes small parts easier to find, and creates a pleasant environment for staff to work.
Make the most of any natural light, and have darker areas lit with energy saving lighting. It also helps to paint the walls and surfaces in a light color.
- Training
Keep staff up-to-date and trained, so they are upholding the correct practice to do their jobs in the industry you are in. While you will need to spend some money on staff training, it works out in the long run. Technology and techniques are always changing, so if your staff know the best methods of working, your workshop will be more efficient and cost-effective.
Make sure you monitor how your workshop is running and review things regularly to see where improvements can be made. Keep an open conversation with staff, who are in the best position to be able to advise you on what could be done to make their jobs easier, or how things could run more smoothly. Making small changes can add up to a big difference in how well your workshop runs, and to your overall costs, so make it a priority to keep on top of efficiency.
