An Overview of Collection Centers

Let me start by saying, a Collection Center is not a replacement for your Action Center. Your Action Center or Tickler File is essential to establish good paper flow. A Collection Center is an extension of the Action Center. Because many papers never action, they just need a little time for adoring or decision making.

What is a Collection Center*?
A “temporary” limited storage solution for items.

What types of items?

• kids school papers + art work
• incoming mail**
• ongoing project details

**Only if you cannot process your mail into your Action Center immediately.

What does it look like?

• hanging clipboards
• crystal bowl
• metal bucket

Pretty much any container that fits your style and the location. No need to use a boring inbox when a beautiful crystal bowl would work

Where is it located?

• where kids empty backpacks
• where unopened mail sits
• where project management happens

Yes. Create as many as you need.

What are the guidelines for use?

1. Set a purge time frame : How long can an item stay in this location?
   Until the next masterpiece comes along? OR 1 day? OR For the duration of the project?
   
2. Define allowed items: What papers or items are acceptable for this Collection Center?
   Is it only artwork + completed homework? OR Only unopened mail? OR Only this projects specific items?
   
3. Define next action: Where does this item live for a life time?
   Will it be recycled? Placed in a Smile Box? OR Moved to the Action Center? OR Filed in Everday?
   
4. Define responsible parties: Who is responsible for adding and purging the contents?
   Kids add. Mom purges. OR Whoever gets the mail. Or The project manager.

A Collection Center in my house.

1. Set a purge time frame : One Week.
   
2. Define allowed items: The crap :) that my guy pulls out of his pockets and puts everywhere but here.
   
3. Define next action: Reviewed and mostly tossed.
   
4. Define responsible parties: I put it in. I clear it out once a week, when I have his attention to review the contents.

Other good stuff to inspire.

TOOLS : Creative Alternatives for Filing Paper...

Timeless + Budget Smart Ideas for Displaying Kids Artwork ...

Create Flow : Organizing Kids Papers and Stuff...

How to Set Up an Action Center or Tickler File ...

Organizing Papers for Snappy Action...