Definition

Noun: A centralized group of typists within an office or organization who are available to perform typing tasks for various individuals or departments, rather than being assigned to a single person.

Usage

This term refers to a specific, traditional office arrangement. It describes the physical or organizational unit where shared typing services are provided. * Before personal computers, the typing pool was a busy and noisy place. * Her first job was in the company's typing pool, where she typed letters for several managers.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Organizational Context: The concept is largely historical, associated with mid-20th-century office work before the widespread adoption of word processors and personal computers. It represents a model of centralized administrative support.
  • The efficiency of the typing pool was studied in early organizational management theories.

Variants and Related Words

• Typist (n): A person whose job is to type documents.
• Typing (n): The action or skill of writing using a typewriter or keyboard.

Synonyms

• Secretarial pool
• Typists' office
• Central typing bureau

Antonyms

• Personal secretary
• Dedicated typist

Related Phrases/Concepts

• "Pooled resources": A broader business concept where resources (like staff or equipment) are gathered for shared use by a group.
  • The typing pool was an example of pooled resources for administrative tasks.

Noun

1. a group of typists who can work for different persons