Comparing School Furniture: There Is a Right Way.

Price and Specs Don't Tell the Whole Story

By any objective measure, Smith System school furniture compares favorably with competitive brands. But there's more. Our school furniture often exceeds the industry standard in ways that can't be measured, or sometimes even seen.
Consider ergonomics. We've created a wide variety of styles that allow you to choose the chair with the set of ergonomics needed for the learning environment:

• A light texture to the seat and back that help the student sit still
• A waterfall edge that reduces pressure points on the backs of the thighs
• An opening in the back of one-piece chairs that reduces pressure on the lower back and encourages ventilation
• The appropriate seat height for the age of the student
• An adjustable ring to support the student's feet on our stools

Extra Credit Questions About Classroom Furniture Durability.

1. Are the chair's seat and back completely impregnated with pigment?
This minimizes superficial scratches and helps keep the chair looking new, longer. We take this step for all of our chairs, not all of our competitors do.

2. How are the surfaces on chairs, desks and tables protected?
At Smith System we employ:

• Chrome plating
• Powdercoat finishes, baked on for extra durability
• High-pressure laminate

3. How are molded edge bumpers are attached?
If they're stapled, how close together are the staples. We staple our thick edge bumpers every 10", and every 6" around corners. This prevents loose points in the edging.

4. Will the glides need replacement?
If chair employs outside hold glides, you won't be replacing soon. If it relies on butterfly fasteners, repairs are forthcoming. Why? Outside hold glides are secured with bolts because students are hard-wired to lean back on the back legs. Outside hold glides maintain holding power. Butterfly glides may initially meet the original spec, but can't stand up to real-world use and eventually come loose.

Furniture that Reflects the Realities of Schools and Students

Just a couple last questions to ask:
Do the chairs have exposed rivets that can snag clothing or catch hair?
Does the design take current technology requirements into account?
Does the computer furniture have a sensible cable management systems to keep wires out of the way and help assure secure connections?
Are the chairs light enough for students to move or to make stacking easier?

It's furniture, not fine art.

We invite you to look at our furniture from all angles. Take that chair and flip it upside down to look at the welds and the shape of the frame. Look at the underside of the desk-the finish quality goes to show the manufacturer's attention to detail.
We think you'll agree the closer you look, the better the value you'll see in Smith System furniture.

Is Price a Factor

Our price list, compiled for your convenience.

One Last Word on Quality

We don't take the "Q" word lightly.