In recent years, the idea of going paperless has gathered real momentum in offices across the UK. With cloud-based platforms, digital collaboration tools, and document sharing just a click away, it’s easy to see the appeal. Paperless promises a cleaner, more efficient, and often more sustainable way to work. But is it the right fit for everyone — and every task?
As summer rolls around, with its slightly gentler pace and room to reassess routines, it’s a good time to reflect on how we work — and how we want to work. For many, the digital shift has brought clear benefits. Desk spaces are less cluttered, documents are more easily stored and retrieved, and workflows can feel faster and more streamlined. There’s no denying that technology has transformed the modern workplace for the better.
But despite the rise of apps and screens, paper hasn’t disappeared. In fact, in certain corners of the office, it’s quietly thriving. There’s something undeniably satisfying about a notebook and pen, a printed document to pore over, or a handwritten to-do list by your side. And there’s a reason these tools endure. Studies have shown that handwriting can improve memory retention and concentration, and many people find it easier to think creatively when working on paper rather than a screen.
It’s not just about personal preference, either. Paper can often provide a break from digital overload. With so many of us spending hours in front of screens, the physical act of writing — or simply reading from a printed page — offers a kind of mental and visual relief. It creates space to slow down, focus, and absorb.
That said, it’s not about turning back the clock. Most workplaces now operate somewhere between the two extremes — a hybrid setup where digital and paper tools coexist. The smartest systems often blend both: digital platforms for storage, collaboration and speed, combined with paper for planning, thinking, and moments that demand more focus.
There’s also the question of sustainability. While going paperless might seem the greener choice, it’s worth remembering that digital devices come with their own environmental impact, from energy consumption to e-waste. Choosing recycled and responsibly sourced paper, using it efficiently, and disposing of it properly can form part of an environmentally conscious approach too.
So, where does that leave us? Ultimately, the paperless vs practical debate isn’t about picking sides. It’s about being intentional. Understanding when digital tools enhance productivity — and when paper simply does the job better. As we head into summer and start looking ahead to autumn, this could be the perfect time to fine-tune your own approach. Maybe it’s time to refresh your filing system, streamline your digital clutter, or simply treat yourself to a fresh notebook and a quiet corner to plan.
Because sometimes, the best way to move forward is with a pen in hand.