Getting started with Scan & Shred

The sooner you get started "Scan & Shred" the better, this is because the ongoing solution is very easy to set up and managing the current inflow of documents will have immediate and noticeable benefits making your initial efforts worthwhile and therefore fuel your enthusiasm to extend this practice to other areas.

You should also include any documents you currently have hanging around and try to focus on the last 12 months at first.

Assuming you already have access to a scanner and computer setup to scan your documents,

you will also need either a ring binder, folder or file with 12 pockets or compartments, label these January through to December. This is your rolling 12 month buffer between scanning and shredding or archiving your important documents. You also need to store your scanned files somewhere, possibly on the computer you use when scanning or on an external storage device like a USB data stick.

Step One - Digitally capture

Using a scanner is just one of many ways of capturing data, documents and photo's to store on your computer

Step Two - Electronically store

How and where you choose to store your files is very important, the correct file naming and folder structure is essential to searching and backing up as well as security

Step Three - Archive or dispose

The thought of shredding paperwork that until now you have kept indefinitely is quite daunting and using the "Scan & Shred" method involves very little shredding at first, which means you can start a routine and familiarise yourself with this system before confidently shredding your documents further down the line.

Further steps & the possibilities

The possibilities are endless