Engage IT Early When Relocating Your Offices
Posted by Matt Stocking
Maybe we're a bit biased, since this is our area of expertise, but more often than not IT is an afterthought for many small and midsized businesses when undertaking an office move. Engaging your in-house IT staff or computer network consultants early in the planning process will ensure that your new office space is ready to go when your move date arrives.
Keep these suggestions in mind the next time you plan to move:
1) Don't assume that your architect is going to provide the appropriate amount of space for your servers and networking equipment. Advising your architect of your space, cooling, power and physical security requirements before final blue prints are approved is a must. Your computer system support provider can assist with these calculations. However, it's certainly important to verify that your IT staff or IT support company has experience doing this work.
2) Include IT in your build-out meetings. I can't begin to tell you some of the things that have come up during these meetings. Over the years, I've had to point out missing power outlets and data connections, question why sprinkler heads were located directly above the future location of server racks and why architects did not plan to place a lockable door on a room that contained tens of thousands of dollars in computer equipment.
3) Order new Internet service early. A new T1 Internet connection will typically require 4-6 weeks lead time once the order for new service is placed. Ordering this service is your responsibility as the tenant. Even if Internet service is being provided to the current tenant (if there is one), you'll need to arrange for new service to be installed well in advance of your move date.
4) Test, Test, Test. Your IT support staff should test your new Internet connection, as well as any newly purchased equipment prior to your move date. Doing so will help to avoid any last minute surprises.
While there are numerous contingencies to consider, engaging IT early in the process will help to ensure a problem free office move.
