Your ideal workspace is not as hard to find as you might think, but you need to be clear about what your criteria are from the outset. Establishing what your requirements are from the get go, and planning accordingly, can make it easier to find the perfect space and save incurring further expenses down the line.
Here is a list of things to contemplate once you have decided to relocate:
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Transport links
Accessibility should be your first consideration when settling on a location. This will be particularly vital if your business is dependent upon meeting with customers and suppliers, but it is also important to think about the commuting habits of your staff. Are there bus, train and tube facilities nearby?
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Floorspace layout
It is important to do the due diligence and determine what sorts of workspaces your staff require before searching for properties. For instance, does their work regularly involve collaboration? How many meeting rooms will be needed? We recommend that you conduct a feasibility study to assess how to make the best use of the available space. It’s likely you’ll need quiet zones, breakout spaces and communal areas for a start.
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Storage
An office relocation provides the perfect opportunity to address your storage needs. Do you need secure staff lockers? What about allocating space for office supplies, storing documents and storerooms for stock? Remember to compensate for future growth.
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Modern IT systems
Before drawing up any plans for your IT infrastructure, you should be familiar with the systems that are already in place in the prospective building. This includes being informed about any existing issues with cabling and installation. The next thing to think about is what IT systems you will require. Do your current facilities need to be upgraded? Wireless networks are now an office norm, allowing staff greater flexibility in their working habits. Can you afford not to install such technology?
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Parking
Although London-based offices should expect the majority of their staff to use public transport, you should try to cater for those of your employees that don’t. It is also worth considering that visiting clients may wish to drive to your office. What parking is available onsite as well as locally?
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Local amenities
When searching for a building, take note of whether there are a variety of food outlets in the local area. Whilst this is not a high priority, if not, you should make sure that there are decent kitchen facilities or a canteen onsite. Remember, an army marches on its stomach.
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Natural resources
When it comes to the fit out process itself, it’s essential that you make sure your office environment contributes to employee wellbeing. Take what steps you can to provide a stimulating environment that will keep your staff feeling content. Furthermore, incorporating eco-friendly trends into your office design and effectively harnessing natural light will benefit your employees and create a good first impression with visitors.