Planning ahead: Choosing the right office space
Finding an office space that can support your business both now and into the future is imperative. Not only will it save you the cost of relocating again in the near future, but it will also ensure that the office you choose grows with you as your business expands and flourishes throughout the lease.
Here are five steps you should undertake when choosing office space to make sure you get the ideal fit for your business:
Step 1: Size
Do a full staff headcount, then calculate the amount of private offices and conference rooms you are going to need. Use the interactive Office Space Calculator to give you an approximate amount of square feet to satisfy your space requirements.
Step 2: Business objectives
Consider what your business plans are in the near future and in what direction your business is likely to grow. Do you have plans to do more of what you are already doing, break into new markets, or even new countries?
Remember that an office more is a strategic turning point in your company's development and your new premises will need to align with the strategic direction of your business.
Step 3: Image
The office you choose bears a big influence on your company image, so make sure you think ahead of whether the image is going to sustain a positive image of your company - both now and in the future. If the building is not in good condition now, it will look far worse in 5+ years time so choose the style and condition of the building carefully.
Step 4: Finances
It goes without saying that you need a building that you can comfortably afford. This not only goes for the monthly rent, but also any utility and running costs to keep the office running efficiently. Look ahead to what your finances might be like in say 5 years time.
Depending on your goals, you may wish to allocate more funding to other areas of your business in terms of opening of new offices, new talent or marketing.
Step 5: Use a Checklist
You will undoubtedly be touring a number of properties before making a decision, so it's important to keep your eyes fixed on your office wishlist so that you don't miss any essential requirements that your business needs to operate efficiently.
Use this Office Space Checklist and take it with you when touring office properties to help you look out for what's important to your business.
Planning an office move? Go the office relocation planning resource center
-
Start Planning Your Office Move
Wherever you are in your office move process Help Moving Office has the information you need to plan your office move properly.
Start Planning -
Access The Resource Center
With over 15 guides, checklists, tools & calculators the Resource Center has everything you need to plan, organize & manage a successful office move.
See Resources -
Office Relocation Services Directory
Looking for the right companies for your office move? Connect with independently sourced and pre-qualified vendors that are experts in your local market.
The Directory
Latest Tips
-
85 Critical Tasks Before, During, and After the Move
An office move has countless moving parts. Where do you start? Keep reading... "Guru" of office moving, Ed Katz, has you covered!
Read Article -
Request for Information (RFI) with Best Answers
Looking for the best mover for your office relocation? The best way to narrow down your search is to ask the right questions. What are the right questions? We're here to help! Ed Katz, president of the International Office Moving Institute (IOMI) and guru of office moving, will tell you exactly what you should be asking potential movers and what the right mover will say.
Read Article -
Stages of an Office Move
Identify the key stages of an office move and find out what important issues need to be considered at each milestone.
Read Article