How to avoid downtime during your office relocation
One principle concern for business owners as they relocate is the disruption possible downtime can bring – and not without good reason. Unanswered calls, broken booking systems and inactive emails can quickly lose custom for companies in the midst of a removal. The aim with a successful commercial move is to smoothly and swiftly transfer your workspace with as little disturbance or downtime as possible. Here we explain how you can relocate with minimal stress and disorder with a few expert tips.
Pick an appropriate time
Timing is key when it comes to office removals. As soon as you know that relocation is required, consult staff and associates to determine which days are most suitable – or perhaps more importantly what constitutes ‘bad timing’ for your business. There will be certain days and periods that will be better or worse for you – for example, weekdays are rarely quiet for accountants, solicitors and consultants. Online companies may find that overnight moves are best, as this is when they’re likely to receive the fewest number of enquiries. There are other factors to take into account too – such as planned annual leave, local events and possible seasonal disruptions.
Plan ahead
As we often reiterate here on the blog, planning ahead is an absolutely essential aspect of all successful relocations. Where office moves are concerned, adequate preparation could be the difference between a smooth move and a stressful, lengthy experience. Before the removal date, begin to put together a chronological plan that should include activities before, during and after the move itself. If you have professional movers on board they’ll be able to assist you with this, offering their expert insights to help you consider important aspects you may not have previously thought of.
Enlist professional support with IT
IT systems are fine-tuned and highly-sophisticated – operating within a fine balance that can very easily be disrupted, especially during an office move. The more computers, networks, devices and systems you have, the trickier your relocation will be. Professionals will understand exactly how systems should be moved, and in what order certain items must be transferred, plugged in or switched off. Attempting to handle this sensitive task yourself could result in disaster – so where possible, consult an expert who can give you guidance and a chronological contingency plan for the big day. Where possible, perform a full back-up of all digital data and arrange for connection to occur at the other end before you have to pull the plug at your current premises. At Johnsons we have dedicated teams of IT specialists who can help to minimise the downtime your business will face.
Keep customers in the loop
Although taking the above steps should minimise the risk of any downtime, it’s still a good idea to let customers and suppliers know that there may be some downtime. This is especially useful if you’ve planned a weekend or evening relocation, but something unexpected occurs that extends the timeframe of the removal process. Send a friendly, positive email to update clients in particular on the imminent move, promising to keep them in the loop should anything change. Don’t forget to include details of your shiny new premises – perhaps using the move as a PR opportunity through running a competition or inviting guests to a launch event.
For professional assistance and support with an upcoming office relocation why not get in touch with our friendly team today? Thousands of companies nationwide have trusted Johnsons with their removals to date. Discover more about our services and experience here.
