14 Questions that should be Answered Before Every Office Relocation
So you’ve been tasked with the office move!? Exciting, right?
The employees are excited, the visibility to customers is improved, and even your commute is better. While choosing between paint swatches of “Pacific Rim Blue” and “Harbor Side Teal” is fun, have you come up with a strategy for how your IT services are going to be relocated?
Overwhelming? A little. But with the proper game plan, your move can be as simple as plug & play! (well… plug & get back to work).
The fact of the matter is, whether you’re moving across the hall or across the country, moving your IT assets is a complicated dance of moving parts. Whether your team is one IT guy, or a Managed IT Services company who will do the work for you, a plan needs to be in place.
However, this plan isn’t one size fits all! Moving your network into a new building has much different requirements from an existing office space. Even moving within your current building can pose unique challenges! To help you sort this out, we’ve outlined a few questions that EVERYONE should be asking, regardless of where they’re moving!
If you’re moving into an existing space:
- Was the property built with cabling in mind? Will the existing cabling be reused or removed?
- Do your space planners understand where wiring will be required for TVs, computers, workstations, etc.?
- Do you know your own requirements for phone lines? Power outlets? Cabling?
- Do my current contracts make sense for me? Can I save money by evaluating other service options?
If you’re moving into a new construction:
- Do your internet service and phone providers serve that location ? Are there any property management-imposed restrictions that will prevent getting their service in that building?
- What type of schedule can they keep?
- Did your property developer think about your Internet requirements?
- Are all your permits in order? Are inspections scheduled?
- Does your electrician understand your low voltage wiring needs? (Hint- you’re better off using a low-voltage specialist!)
Remember, office moves are 90% planning; 10% moving. Working with an expert to manage your technology relocation can take the burden of planning off your shoulders.
Everyone should think about:
- Do I need to upgrade any equipment?
- Do I have a dedicated server room?
- Will I be able to connect to printers, scanners, and Wi-Fi on day one?
- Will my information be securely transmitted and stored?
- Are my phone systems in working order? Is it time to upgrade?
Ordering the wrong equipment can be a costly, time consuming mistake. Taking the time to consult with a specialist before ordering can save you from headaches in the future.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with this list, contact me. I’d be happy to give you a quick phone call to discuss your specific situation! Simply send an e-mail to officemoves@summitbiztech.com or fill out the form on this page:
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Next week, I’ll share the little things no one thinks about that can create expensive do-overs.
