Planning an IT relocation: Get a head start
Planning an IT Relocation in advance
When a company plans to move office, there are many things to prioritize and organize so that your move proceeds smoothly. Relocating your IT equipment is one of them. If this important aspect of your relocation is neglected, there will be an impact on your business, as well as on your customers who are paying for your services.
By getting a head start on planning your IT relocation, you will be able to eliminate risk and minimize any downtime your business may experience. Even if you have not yet secured office space, there are still some important things to consider so that you are well prepared in advance.
IT equipment inventory
An IT inventory will enable you to review all your equipment and help you decide if anything needs upgrading or replacing. An office move is the ideal time to do this, and you can use this time to research what technology is most appropriate for your needs.
Review your computer software too, and ensure that all your computers have the latest updates available to enable you to operate efficiently in the new office.
What infrastructure is needed?
Now you know what equipment you need, the next stage is to work out what infrastructure is required so that everything works as it should. At this stage, you may want to outsource some of the more complex infrastructure stages to an IT Relocation Company.
They will be able to tell you what infrastructure you need, and where to source it. When you have secured your office space, you will need to review what infrastructure (if any) is already installed, and what you need to order in advance.
What resources to you need?
Working with the right team to manage and the migration of your IT equipment is critical. This might comprise working with an IT relocation company, or if your budget doesn't stretch to that, you will certainly need the expertise of an technical person with your own organization to help oversee everything.
You will also need to contact your telecom provider to discuss the transfer of your telephone number and order any new phone lines for the new location.
Update your Business Continuity Plan (BCP)
Reviewing and updating your Business BCP will benefit you if some unforeseen technical challenges surface during the actual move that may disrupt your essential business operations.
This might include:
- A risk assessment of what could go wrong
- Preventative actions to reduce the likelihood
- Mitigation actions to reduce the severity
- Staffing & Training
Another consideration to ensure your IT relocation goes smoothly is that of staffing. Consider how your staff will embrace the new location and whether they require any training on new IT products, phone systems and new processes.
Keeping staff fully engaged and motivated before, during and after the move is vital so that productivity remains consistent throughout. Pre-planning is highly recommended to fully define the scope of the project, and so that you can allocate the time required to complete a smooth IT relocation.
For more information and tips, download this IT Relocation Checklist.
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