7 Points to Consider when Vetting Office Space
Choosing the right office space is not just about the look and feel of the place, or whether the location is right. You also have to consider the practicalities too, and these include the technological aspects and whether the office is considered suitable for your IT systems and any specific communication requirements.
Here are seven points to consider when vetting office space:
1. Power & Cooling
Can the prospective building supply enough power to satisfy your technology needs? Computers, servers and phones. Especially if your busines involves power-intensive computing, it's worth looking into the availability of power a bit more. Also ensure the building has sufficient air conditioning and ventilation especially if you have a dedicated server, as they will need adequate cooling to perform optimally.
2. Size of Office Space
Make sure you use our free Office Space Calculator to ensure you are touring the right sized properties for your requirements. Does the property offer enough space for employees' computers, phones and other peripherals. How much server room space will you need over time?
3. Communication Service Providers
Moving office to a new geographical location may mean having to change your service providers, including phone number and any external IT support you have. Find out which service providers serve the local area and whether they offer the right voice and data services you need.
4. Wireless Connectivity
Don't assume the building will have a wireless connection. If your business relies on it, be sure to check whether it's viable.
5. Network Cabling
This is one of the major overlooked aspects by companies moving to new offices. As many businesses don't realize that wiring an office can amount to significant costs. When touring office space, ask whether cabling already exists for phones and computers and to what extend it suffices your technology needs.
6. Office Phone Systems
How many phone points are there in the building? Are they in the right place? If they don't meet your requirements you will have to order more and arrange for some of them to be relocated to meet your new office space configuration.
7. IP-Based Security
If physical security of your technical equipment is a priority, inquire about the availability of IP-based security systems. These provide alarm monitoring, video surveillance and even temperature monitoring over the internet.
For more considerations when vetting office space, use the Office Space Checklist - a free download.
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