Dicks and Company Basics | Work Well Blog

June 1, 2023

Exploring the Advantages of Printed Material vs. Digital

In an increasingly digitized world, where screens dominate our daily lives, there is something undeniably captivating about the tactile experience of printed material. While digital communication has undoubtedly revolutionized how we connect and consume information, it is essential to recognize the enduring benefits of printed material. Why is it that printed material continues to hold a special place in our hearts? Hear are seven unique advantages it offers.

1. Unlike digital content, printed material allows for a sensory experience; it is tangible and engaging. The weight of a magazine in your hands or the texture of a well-crafted business card creates a connection that goes beyond the virtual realm. Printed material engages multiple senses, invoking emotions and leaving a lasting impression on readers.

2. In a world where anyone can create digital content, printed material holds a certain level of credibility. Physical materials, such as books or reports, undergo rigorous editing and review processes, giving them an air of authority. Printing instills trust in readers and can elevate the perceived value of the information presented.

3. Our online environment is filled with pop-up ads, notifications, and clickable links, so it's easy to get side-tracked from the intended message. Printed material offers a respite from the constant barrage of digital interruptions. With no hyperlinks or flashing banners vying for attention, physical documents allow readers to focus on the content at hand, fostering deeper engagement and understanding.

4. Printed material does not require an internet connection or a specific device to access. It can be enjoyed anywhere, at any time, without the need for battery life. This accessibility ensures that the message is not dependent on technological barriers, making it available to a broader audience.

5. Printed material has been proven to have a stronger impact on memory retention compared to digital content. Research shows that people tend to retain information better when they read it on paper rather than on a screen. The tactile experience of physically turning pages and visually engaging with printed material creates stronger neural connections, resulting in improved recall.

6. Printed material allows for highly targeted and personalized communication strategies. Direct mail campaigns, for example, can be tailored to specific demographics, delivering targeted messages to the right audience. Personalization techniques, such as variable data printing, enable the inclusion of individualized elements, such as names or customized offers, further enhancing the impact and relevance of the communication.

7. Printed material offers limitless possibilities for creative expression and brand reinforcement. The use of high-quality paper, captivating imagery, and thoughtful design can elevate the aesthetic appeal of printed material, creating a visually engaging experience for readers. This visual impact reinforces brand identity and fosters a sense of authenticity and professionalism.

While digital communication undoubtedly brings convenience and speed to our lives, it is crucial not to overlook the enduring value of printed material. From its tangible and engaging nature to its credibility, reduced distractions, and enhanced memorability, printed material offers a unique set of benefits that cannot be replicated in the digital realm. By incorporating printed materials into our communication strategies, we can create more meaningful connections and engage our audience in a way that resonates on a deeper level.

May 1, 2023

Write on! What Your Favourite Style of Pen Says About You

Have you ever thought about what your favourite style of pen says about your personality? Believe it or not, the pen you choose to write with can reveal a lot about your style and disposition. In this post, we'll explore some of the most popular styles of pens and what they say about you.

Gel Pen:

If you love gel pens, chances are you're someone who values creativity and self-expression. You're not afraid to try new things and enjoy taking risks. You likely have a playful, imaginative personality and enjoy exploring new ideas and concepts.

Fountain Pen:

Fountain pen enthusiasts are often seen as sophisticated and cultured. You appreciate the finer things in life and enjoy indulging in luxury experiences. You have a refined taste and pay attention to details. You're likely someone who values tradition and craftsmanship.

Ball Point Pen:

Ball point pen fans tend to be practical and efficient. You value function over form and are always looking for ways to streamline processes and get things done more efficiently. You're not one for needless frills or fancy details and prefer a simple, straightforward approach to things.

Rollerball Pen:

Rollerball pen aficionados are often creative, expressive, and detail oriented. You appreciate quality and value craftsmanship, but also enjoy a good pop of colour or a unique design. You're likely someone who enjoys the process of creating and are always looking for ways to add your personal touch to everything you do.

Marker Pen:

If you're a fan of marker pens, you're likely someone who values boldness and confidence. You enjoy making a statement and aren't afraid to speak your mind. You're likely a natural leader who enjoys taking charge and making decisions.

Whether you prefer the practicality of a ballpoint pen or the luxury of a fountain pen, there's a style of pen out there that's perfect for you. So, the next time you reach for your favourite pen, take a moment to think about what it says about you and embrace the qualities that make you exceptional.

April 7, 2023

Support Your Local Economy: Why Shopping at Locally Owned Businesses Is Beneficial

We're proud to be a locally owned and operated office supplies business in Newfoundland and Labrador. We know that shopping from local businesses is beneficial to both the economy and the community, and we’re happy to share why.

When you shop from a locally owned business like ours, you’re keeping your money in your local market. That means your purchase is helping to create and sustain jobs in the community. In addition, when you shop local, you’re helping to support local initiatives and organizations, such as charities and non-profits. Many local businesses donate a portion of their profits to local initiatives and organizations or offer discounts and special deals for non-profits. By shopping local, you’re helping to ensure that these vital programs and services remain available to the community.

Shopping locally also helps to keep your city/town vibrant. Local businesses often have unique offerings that you won’t find in big-box stores. This helps to make a unique, interesting place to live.

Finally, shopping locally helps to build relationships between customers and businesses, and between businesses and the community. When you shop from a local business, you’re likely to have a more personalized shopping experience. You’ll get to know the business owners and employees, and they’ll get to know you. This helps to create a stronger sense of community, as well as a sense of responsibility to the community.

At Dicks and Company Basics, we know that shopping locally is good for everyone involved, and we appreciate your support! Thanks for choosing to shop with us.

April 1, 2023

Reduce Your Environmental Footprint and Save Money with Remanufactured Printer Cartridges!

If you're looking for an eco-friendly and wallet-friendly way to reduce your environmental impact, using remanufactured printer cartridges is definitely worth considering. Not only does it help to reduce landfill waste by giving cartridges a new lease of life, but it also conserves energy and water, and reduces carbon emissions.

Did you know that it can take up to 1,000 years for printer cartridges to decompose in landfills? By opting for remanufactured cartridges made from recycled materials, you can help to reduce the amount of waste that ends up there. Plus, manufacturing new cartridges requires a lot of energy, while remanufactured ones require significantly less. By choosing to use remanufactured cartridges, you're doing your part to conserve energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

But that's not all. The production of new printer cartridges also requires a significant amount of water, while remanufactured ones require substantially less. By using remanufactured cartridges, you're helping to conserve water resources as well.

Not only is using remanufactured cartridges great for the environment, but it can also save you money. They're typically less expensive than new cartridges, so you're not only reducing your environmental impact but also your printing costs.

All in all, choosing to use remanufactured printer cartridges is a win-win for both your wallet and the environment. So, why not give it a try and see the benefits for yourself? Check out our selection of Basics® Brand remanufactured cartridges here > .

March 7th, 2023

Checklist for Office Ergonomics: Eight Tips for a Healthy and Productive Workstation

It’s important to take care of our bodies and ensure that we are practicing good ergonomics, no matter if we’re working from home or at the office. This is especially crucial for those of us who spend long hours sitting at a desk. To help you stay healthy and productive, we've put together a checklist of workplace ergonomics tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure that your workstation is set up in a way that promotes good posture and reduces the risk of injury.

1. Adjust your chair: Start by adjusting your chair to the correct height so that your feet are flat on the ground, your knees are at a 90-degree angle, and your hips are level with your knees. This will help to ensure good blood flow to your legs. Your chair should also have good lumbar support, which will help to prevent lower back pain. Make sure your chair has adjustable armrests that can be positioned so that your arms can rest comfortably at your sides. This will help to prevent strain on your shoulders and neck.

2. Position your keyboard: Your keyboard should be placed at a height that allows your arms to rest comfortably at your sides, with your elbows bent at a 90-degree angle. This will help to prevent strain on your wrists and forearms. Consider using a keyboard tray to achieve the ideal position. By using a keyboard tray, you can adjust the height, tilt, and distance of your keyboard with ease, giving you greater flexibility in setting up your workstation. Additionally, a keyboard tray can free up valuable desk space and improve your overall posture and comfort by allowing you to maintain a neutral wrist position while typing. Look for a keyboard tray that can support the size and weight of your keyboard and that has a range of motion that suits your needs. With the help of a keyboard tray, you can achieve the perfect keyboard position for your ergonomic setup.

3. Position your mouse: Your mouse should be close to your keyboard and at the same height. This will prevent you from having to reach for your mouse, which can cause strain on your shoulders and neck.

4. Use an ergonomic mouse: A traditional mouse can cause strain on your wrists and forearms, especially if you use it for long periods of time. Consider investing in an ergonomic mouse that is designed to support your hand and reduce the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. There are many different types of ergonomic mice available, such as vertical mice or trackballs, so experiment with different options to find the one that works best for you. By using an ergonomic mouse, you can further reduce the risk of developing discomfort or injury from repetitive use.

5. Adjust your monitor: Your monitor should be positioned at a comfortable viewing distance, usually about an arm's length away. The top of the monitor should be at or slightly below eye level, and the screen should be tilted slightly upward to reduce glare. Consider using a monitor arm to achieve the ideal position. A monitor arm allows you to adjust the height, tilt, and distance of your monitor with ease, giving you greater flexibility in setting up your workstation. By using a monitor arm, you can avoid straining your neck or eyes by having to adjust your posture to see your monitor clearly. Additionally, a monitor arm can free up valuable desk space and improve the overall aesthetics of your workstation. Look for a monitor arm that can support the size and weight of your monitor and that has a range of motion that suits your needs.

6. Consider using footrests and backrests: Use a footrest and/or backrest if you find that your workstation setup does not allow you to maintain proper posture. Your feet should be able to rest comfortably on the floor or a footrest, with your thighs parallel to the floor. This helps to improve circulation and reduce pressure on your lower back. Additionally, a backrest can provide support for your spine and help to maintain the natural curve of your lower back. A footrest can help to reduce pressure on your lower back and improve blood flow to your legs, while a backrest can help to support your spine and prevent slouching. Look for a footrest and backrest that provide the right amount of support for your needs, so you can further reduce the risk of developing discomfort or injury from sitting for extended periods of time.

7. Consider a sit-to-stand desk: A sit-to-stand desk allows you to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day, which can help to reduce the risk of developing aches and pains from sitting for extended periods of time. Standing can also help to improve circulation, increase energy levels, and reduce fatigue. Sit-to-stand desks are adjustable, allowing you to easily switch between sitting and standing positions; some desks even come with pre-set height adjustments that you can customize to your specific needs. If you are using a sit-to-stand desk, be sure to adjust the height of your monitor and keyboard accordingly to maintain proper posture while standing (following the same positioning tips above). You can also consider using an anti-fatigue mat or standing mat to help reduce fatigue and provide extra support for your feet and legs.

8. Take breaks: Even with good ergonomics, sitting for long periods of time can be hard on your body. To further reduce the risk of discomfort or injury from sitting for extended periods of time, take regular breaks to stretch your muscles and give your eyes a rest. Every 30 minutes or so, stand up and stretch your legs, arms, neck, and shoulders. You can also perform simple exercises such as shoulder rolls, neck stretches, and leg extensions to help improve circulation and reduce muscle tension. In addition, follow the 20-20-20 rule for eye health. Every 20 minutes, take a break from looking at your screen and focus on an object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This can help to reduce eye strain and prevent eye fatigue.

By following these simple tips, you can help to prevent injuries and stay comfortable and productive at work. Remember, taking care of your body is key to success in any workplace. So, take the time to set up your workstation properly and make ergonomics a priority in your workday.

February 13th, 2023

Transform Your Workspace: Simple Tips for Organizing Your Desk

Let's face it, a cluttered and disorganized desk can make even the most motivated person feel demotivated. It's hard to focus on tasks and find what you need when your workspace is a mess. But don't worry, organizing your desk doesn't have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of planning and some creative solutions, you'll be able to have a clean and functional desk in no time.

First things first, let's declutter. Go through everything on your desk and decide what you need, use, and want to keep. Get rid of anything that doesn't fit into those categories. This step is crucial as it's hard to organize things you don't actually need.

Next, assign a home for every item that's left. Think about what you use the most and where it would be most convenient for you to have it. Give each item a specific spot, whether it's in a drawer, on a shelf, or in a bin. This will make it easy to put things away and find them when you need them.

Don't underestimate the power of vertical space. Your desk surface is probably limited, so make use of the space above it by using wall-mounted organizers or shelving units. This will help keep your desk clear of clutter while still keeping everything easily accessible.

Desk organizers are also a great solution to keep your desk clutter-free. From desk trays to pencil holders, and document organizers, they can help you keep your items in order. Don't forget to use drawer organizers too to keep your drawers neat and tidy.

Finally, set a daily routine to keep your desk organized. Before you leave your office each day, make sure everything is put away in its assigned spot. And be consistent about cleaning your desk at the end of each day.

Organizing your desk can take some time to find the best solutions that work for you, so don't get discouraged if you don't get it right on the first try. Keep experimenting and stay consistent with your daily routine, and soon enough you'll have a tidy and functional space. And that's when the real productivity magic happens!

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