HOUSEKEEPING

Housekeeping in warehousing has been generally defined as hygiene for a long time now. the word is immediately related to dusting, regular cleaning, pest control etc. Allow me to broaden your perspective about this concept. Think of housekeeping and a housewife. The two share a lot in common. Uganda Revenue Authority refers to warehouse supervisors as bond keepers. And what makes a successful housewife/housekeeper? i.e. a no stress, multi tasking happy housewife? The following principles must apply.

1. Time schedule/ To do list

To keep sane and efficient, you must plan your time. Create a to do list. Tick off as you complete each task. This will show you how much progress you are making. It is advisable that you hold a toolbox meeting early morning to discuss with your team the day's tasks at hand. Insist that the timelines are met by all.

2. Prioritize

We have had a hard time on some of the projects defining "emergency". The teams were finding it difficult to manage their workload because frequent "emergency requests" from the client. Have your priorities and KPIs clear. Stick to them. And if you happen to face a backlog, clear the simpler tasks first. this reduces your to-do list faster than if your deal with the complicated tasks first.

3. Relationships

Be positive, helpful and valuable to all. Communicate clearly. Remain approachable. Do not be entangled in office politics. Keep objective. Remember you are part of a supply chain. A chain is as strong as its weakest link.

4. Budget

As a warehouse personnel you will always be part of a sort of budget. Most likely in monitoring usage of the given resources. For your general department profitability, you must operate within the given budget boundaries. Use the cleaning materials sparingly, save on utilities, do not waste stationery etc. Project usage accurately. This will help to ensure that your unit is always provided for.

Regards,

Ashaba Daphne

ashadaphine@yahoo.com