Today is the official observance of the 4th of July and many of us in the US have the day off.   Usually, we re-post one of our favorite articles on a holiday, but instead we’re sharing a product review.  If you’ve used this Smead Stadium File, please leave a comment telling us how you like it.

Who doesn’t have paper clutter?  It’s one of the more popular reasons why clients ask for my help.  There are many systems that can help control paper, and I was recently asked by the nice folks at Buttoned Up to review* a new one: Stadium File™ by Smead.  They also sent Super Tab® folders and Viewables® labels, but I primarily focused on the stadium file.  Here’s my report…

What I Like

• Color. So, who cares about color?  What does that have to do with with paper clutter? Well, if you like the look and feel of the product, you’re more likely to use it and also maintain it. It’s Open.  It’s not closed (like a file drawer) so it’s great for those of us who are visual learners.  You’ll be able to see exactly what’s inside without having to open a lid or drawer.  Note: This can be con…if you don’t keep your system neat, you’ll see that, too.

• Flexibility.

(a) You can use it with file folders or simply put papers in the appropriately labeled spot.

(b) Use it for frequently used documents (i.e., action files)…

(c) or use the entire system for docs related to a project you’re working on.

(d) You can even use it just for bills.

(e) This might be a good option to collect incoming mail instead of having piles on the kitchen counter.  Use name labels help you filter mail to appropriate person.

(f) Business owners could use it for client follow up or lead files.

• Pre-printed Labels. This system comes with labels for just about anyone:  alpha, months, numbers, and names of popular categories (e.g., banking, receipts, utilities, insurance, credit card, medical, etc.).  There are also blank labels so you can create categories specific to your needs.  That’s a great opportunity to use your label maker, yes?

• Tiers. It’s tiered (hence the name stadium) so that you can easily see the tabs on file folders…or the stadium tabs which are located on the left, center, and right.  This allows you to put labels wherever you prefer.

• Size. The unit is small enough to move easily to any spot that you intend to work.  It’s the right size for the top of your desk, too.

• Green. It’s blue but it’s green, too…well, partially.  It’s made from 10% recycled materials.

What Would Have Made it Perfect

• Portability. Though it’s small enough to move around your office (or to the kitchen table), when filled to capacity, it may be a bit heavy or cumbersome. I like to visit my other “offices,” a.k.a. Panera & Starbucks, so it would be nice if it had handles to make it more portable.  Perhaps handles could be placed on the front and back??

Last Word…

…about the Viewables® labels…

• Why I like them: The biggest plus is that you can see the labels from the top of the file. Being able to view label names immediately helps you find what you’re looking for more quickly. Also, the labels now come in a variety of colors.  You can use colors to connect similar categories of files.  I used them quite a bit in my previous work life and wish I had color options back then.

• Why I don’t like them: To make the labels, you need to download software AND you need your PC to make them.  I think a labeler is much more efficient.  I also sometimes found it difficult to keep up with the system…though that could have been because I was a bit of a perfectionist.  I had to make sure the labels were on completely straight!

Disclosure: This is sponsored content which means that I was compensated for doing this review. What was my prize? A  $20 Target gift card. Not a huge prize but one that can come in handy.  =) Remember, OTR authors don’t give positive reviews for anything we do not believe in. Our content was not edited or directed in any way by Smead or Get Buttoned Up.