PLANNING TO RELOCATE?
11 PITFALLS TO AVOID…
Growing or downsizing? You’re asking yourself the question, “Where do we start?”
Diane Sumner lists 11 crucial points you should consider when evaluating new
premises, whether you’re leasing or buying.
By Diane K. Sumner, B. Interior Design, U of Manitoba. Member of DINZ
Don’t leave it too late to look for premises before your lease expires. The design, consent & fit-out process can take up to 4 – 6 months or longer
Who will be managing your shift? Can you afford to have that person away from their regular work duties?
Get advice on your spatial requirements before you commit to a lease (and guarantees). Getting it wrong can be a very expensive mistake.
Understand the difference between rentable and useable area. The useable area is your office space but the rentable area includes a share of the common areas such as amenities & lobbies. This can vary greatly between buildings.
Does the building you’re considering moving to comply with the current building code? You may be up for the upgrade cost if the landlord doesn’t.
Consider moving to newer energy efficient buildings. This will mean lower on-going operating costs and a healthier & secure work environment for staff.
Think outside the square rather than just repeating what you’ve already got. A well laid out, tidy office will improve staff morale and increase productivity.
Rationalise the number of offices you really need. Partitioning and service alterations all add to the cost.
Make your space work better for your business. You can make huge savings on your rental cost by investing in technology, hot desking and smaller workstations.
Use your premises as a business tool rather than an overhead. Space that is well organised and reflects the culture of the company will help establish your image in the marketplace and attract staff.
Don’t forget to involve staff. They can make very useful suggestions as to what does & doesn’t work in your existing location.
Copyright 2009 - Intellectual Property of Malcolm & Sumner Limited. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted.
Malcolm & Sumner have developed a series of discussion papers. These are available free on requested in person or from our website. Two of our most popular are:
MOVING OR UPGRADING YOUR OFFICE SPACE?
PLANNING A FIT-OUT…
…A detailed discussion paper to help the stay-shift decision plus a 17 point guide to what’s involved in organising a fit-out.
DESIGNING YOUR WORKPLACE?
31 KEY QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK…
…A detailed discussion paper listing 31 key questions to consider when planning your office environment.
We welcome your call or e-mail. To arrange a meeting to discuss your office layout or to organise our Spatial Assessment Package please feel free to contact:
Malcolm & Sumner Design
T: 09 916 5187
E: ms@malcolmsumner.co.nz
W: www.malcolmsumner.co.nz
MAKING SPACES WORK
“Integrating space, technology, people & image”