Office supplies are arguably not the most riveting subject around. Things like paper, desks, and post-it notes don't exactly make for an intriguing read. However, the fact the the office supplies have remained so relevant for so long, and especially in the face of the increased use of technology, is noteworthy. A pen and paper was all someone needed to operate a business not too long ago. Now, you need a whole team of people divided into departments with different responsibilities. The tasks have changed, but the interesting thing is that the materials have changed very little. With the exception to the computer and various other technologies, the classic office supplies have remained largely unchanged. They might come out with a smoother writing pen, or whiter paper, but the form and function are the same. Office supplies are in no danger of being eliminated as their use is still counted on in today's society.
The office supplies industry used to cover only a few products, but now it is a monstrous industry that covers a lot of products and companies. What makes this industry thrive is that they are used not only in business settings. Schools, colleges, and universities need massive quantities of office supplies for the faculty, staff, and students. Correctional facilities need mass amounts of paper products for all of the staff and inmates. The industries that need office supplies are not as obvious as one would think, and the answers are often surprising.
So, some may say the office supply industry is as old as a dinosaur, and they'd be right. The important thing to remember is that despite their age, office supplies continue to be relevant in the face of technological advances. The world of technology is advancing at an amazing rate, yet office supplies are as timeless as ever. The pen and paper might not be as interesting as the newest gadget to come out, but it's a tested method that everyone can rely on. In that way, office supplies are here to stay.
