Moving Office in 2018

If you’re planning to move office in 2018, there is already plenty to start thinking about, and the quiet period over Christmas and the New Year is a good time to get the wheels in motion. Think about:

Appointing a project team

Engage with key stakeholders within your organisation including HR, IT, marketing and finance, to create a project team and produce a brief. Participants will need to be good communicators, understand what is required from the office move and can cascade information to employees effectively. We know that office relocation announcement to all parties is very important.

Pick the right location for your business, your staff and for attracting new talent

The location of your workforce is very important and the decision you make about a new location needs to be the right one for your business and workforce, both now and in the future.

Understand the costs involved and budget accordingly

Whether you are moving miles away or just up the road, you need to be clear on your budget and all the costs involved. If you haven’t moved office before you may not know where to begin with setting a budget. Here are some of the costs you should consider alongside insurances, rent, security and other expenses: dilapidation costs, removal costs, agent fees, lease finance, furniture, legal fees and fit out costs.

Think about future growth and the productivity of your workforce

If you plan to expand the business, will the new space allow for this expansion? Good design will reduce the risk of you having to completely change your space during your lease. Good surroundings and access to natural light can reduce stress for employees.

Design an office that works for your business

Think about how the design of the office will stimulate minds and inspire your workforce. Do you require one floor or multiple floors, what cabling will you need for phone lines and data, is there enough space for desks, storage and breakout areas for staff, are services such as air conditioning, plumbing, heating and waste shared with other tenants in the building, is there enough power for your business requirements?

Manage your IT requirements

Carry out a data and IT audit to identify what data you currently store and what your IT requirements may be in the future. Think about outsourcing the move of your IT equipment to a specialist firm who can also set it up in your new office and ensure you are ready to hit the ground running when you open.

Consider the environment

The advantages of a sustainable office include increased productivity, reduced energy costs and a more efficient workplace. Something that makes a big difference and is often overlooked is double glazing. It can help save money on your energy bills as well as reduce external noise.

Work with a workplace relocation and design firm

It is unlikely that you will have an in-house property manager to deal with all the aspects of the move. Outsourcing this to a reputable office relocation company can save you time and money, but perhaps most importantly, it can help to relieve some of the stress of the move and enable you and your team to do what you do best, running your business.