Relocating your office can be disruptive, especially in relation to the other ongoing needs of your business. Thankfully, with the right strategy and the best vendors, you can not only ensure a successful move, but minimize the friction your team experiences. Here are five specific steps to keep in mind.
It All Starts with Planning
A smooth and frictionless relocation doesn’t begin on moving day. It usually starts about three months beforehand, when you convene with your moving company to map out the logistics of your office relocation.
Because every office is different, there’s not necessarily a blueprint here. However, you should certainly create a timeline, as well as some contingency plans should your preferred timeline not work. Make sure you define the specific roles people on your team will play. And start planning for ways to keep your normal day-to-day operations running smoothly, such as ensuring that IT configures a secure network at your new location so employees can jump right in.
Emphasize Communication
Another important way to minimize disruption is to emphasize ongoing communication with your employees. Bring your team members into the discussion as early as possible.
This accomplishes a couple of things. First, it ensures that your employees can come to you with any questions that arise, including inquiries about maintaining day-to-day continuity. In many situations, employees will identify logistical issues or challenges that you’ve never considered.
It also provides you with a chance to reassure employees that you’re taking all the right steps to position them for a smooth transition. Remember that relocation can be psychologically difficult for team members, but ongoing communication helps a great deal.
Work Closely with IT
It’s especially important to involve IT in your relocation planning as early as possible. IT can play an invaluable role in:
- Verifying that the new space is properly configured.
- Prioritizing data security during and after the move.
- Helping you inventory your computer equipment, assess the equipment that’s out of date, and recommend new purchases that can enhance your business productivity.
Consider Remote Work Options
It’s understandable that you’d feel apprehensive about lost productivity during your commercial relocation. While a little bit of downtime is unavoidable, there are practical ways you can maintain some sense of business-as-usual.
One of the most straightforward solutions is to plan early on to have some core employees work from home during the relocation, handling normal business affairs while other team members get the new office situated.
Ask Your Vendor About Technology
Relocation isn’t an easy job, but you can succeed so long as you’ve got the right tools. Have plenty of early conversations with your commercial office mover about things like crates, tracking and inventory technology, and other types of equipment that can make your transition seamless.
Have More Questions About Minimizing Disruption During Your Move?
Our experienced team can help. Get your free consultation today!
Learn MoreContact Corovan with Commercial Relocation Questions
A smooth, successful move is possible with the right partners. At Corovan, we have more than 75 years of expertise providing comprehensive commercial moving solutions. Reach out to our team whenever you’re ready to chat.