resource notebook
I do not see the need for a printed notebook when paper is outdated as soon as it is printed. How I would solve this problem would be to download all of the proper documentation onto a thumbdrive that everyone has. Then, everyone would need to turn it in once a month to get it updated with the latest versions. This eliminates the possibility for the information to get outdated as well as it eliminates the need to destroy trees to print the documents.
Jonathan,
Both formats provide you an excellent opportunity to find information when you need it. There are advantages to both.
Patty Aronoff
I think it important to use both a note book or reference binder and electronic docs storage of policy and procedures. Procedures are ever changing and we often need to ref to them from various locations if I have access to my computer I have access to the policies for reference.
Sara,
I couldn't agree with you more! I am the same way In taking notes helps me learn the material and refresh my memory.
Patty Aronoff
There are many ways to keep track of information, but I myself am a note taker. I utilize every technical resource that is available to me, but I always seem to go back to the old school notebook(this stays at work). I also make sure that key points that I can refer to are noted on my desktop. This may be confusing to some, but it works for me.
Julie,
It is a changing of a culture to release our hold on paper. Many people like the security of paper and others like the ease of electronic.
Patty Aronoff
Chelsea,
There are advantages to each and it really comes down to personal preference.
Patty Aronoff
I think Cristen has raised an excellent point. In today's world, it almost seems old fashioned to have so many copies of the notebook at one institution, especially when things are always changing. It is a high tech world we live in, and I think it would be wise to take advantage of that. As a possible solution to the issues that could arise from computers/technology, maybe have one main copy of the notebook that is always being updated, so in case of an emergency there's always that as a back up. I happen to be someone who is very conscious of the environment and recycling, so I find it worthwhile to look into other options for this particular topic. I do this while also understanding the convenience, value, and reliability of a printed resource notebook.
I think it truly depends on the person. For some it is easy to have something readily at hand to visualize and scan through pages in a book. For others it may be easier and a way to stay more organized in files and access at any point in time. However, I must say having a hard copy incase a file may accidentally be deleted is a great idea.
Phillip,
That is an excellent point! I have lost a few in my time as well as experienced corruption of a drive.
Patty Aronoff
Cristen,
The important factor is that you have the information and it is accessible to you. Many people prefer a paper copy for their notebook.
Patty Aronoff
This sounds like a good idea. I really can't see a downside other than some companies don't like flash drives that have company files to leave the building, whereas a notebook is not going to be a problem with almost any employer to take home and study.
