Winter, 2010
Top 13 Questions (and Answers)
We've renewed our lease for another year, then we may downsize or move. What should we be doing right now?
With one year remaining on your lease, it is definitely not too early to start planning. Until you know how much or what kind of space you need and the costs to make it happen, you won't have a firm basis for making decisions. We'll help you work through the details. Starting now will allow you enough time to make critical decisions and look at options based on your schedule, not while under pressure to decide. When it comes to office space, the more you know about your needs and the more time you have to plan, the more control you'll have of your project and your finances.
We learn about your company and listen to your needs. We use that information to develop criteria for your specific space requirements including the amount and type of space you need. We put together a line-item budget for all your project items, furniture (new or used) and moving included, so you know what to plan for. We don't sell furniture so you don't have to worry about pressure to buy. You can reuse existing or rely on us to get you the best pricing on the furniture of your choice. Give yourself enough time to make decisions.
Our approach is a client-centered process intended to achieve your goals within the limitation of today's economic situation. We work with you collaboratively to help you reduce costs and avoid common pitfalls.
Is used furniture right for my company?
Not all used furniture is created equal. To evaluate what is best for your situation, you'll need to have some idea of the age of the used product, the brand and whether it's still being manufactured, especially if you want to add to it later. Is the product original or have non-standard pieces been added? Is shipping and installation YOUR responsibility? Is it readily available? Do the electrical components meet the codes in your area? Are there any warranties? Is the supplier reliable? How does the used furniture actually compare to the price and benefits of new furniture? Does this REALLY save money? The answers to these questions will determine whether used furniture is a good or bad investment.
We utilize a variety of sources, both local and nationally, for used furniture. Since we don't sell new or used furniture, we'll recommend the options that are best for you. We recently sourced about 60 workstations of used furniture product for a local high-tech company. This particular product was about a year old and had only been in use for one month. The client bought workstations for roughly 1/3 of the price of already discounted NEW systems furniture from the same manufacturer.
We're considering changes and need a building plan. How do I get one?
Everything starts with a plan! An accurate floorplan is a valuable visual tool and a necessity for future changes. With laser measuring technology, we field measure and create your building plans in AutoCAD. We've measured a variety of buildings including the State Office Building at 1 West Wilson Street, an 8,000 SF housing co-op and suites that were 5,000 SF and under. We measure building additions and can add them to the original building plan. A financial institution asked us to measured 250,000 SF at multiple building locations around the state to create an electronic library.
Do our restrooms need to be ADA compliant?
With few exceptions, whenever you make changes to your building or suite, restrooms, corridors and exits need to be ADA compliant. The building or suite will not only be more accessible but also more marketable. Even a person on crutches for a short period of time (speaking from experience) will appreciate the ease of using ADA accessible restrooms and entries.
How much will my project cost?
What's a plan without a budget? We will put together a detailed project and construction budget. We look at ways to reduce costs and still accomplish your original goals.
Can I get more staff on the floor if I reconfigure?
Companies are looking for ways to reduce their space needs as a way to reduce costs. For some, the solution may be to eliminate private offices. During a recent reconfigure, by eliminating private offices, we were able to increase staff occupancy from 41 to 69 (and improve their work environment) all while using their standard, 8x8 workstations.
Can we refurbish our existing space with minimal down time and inconvenience?
An experienced project manager and detailed pre-planning can accomplish your renovation all while maintaining business as usual. It takes manageable phases, availability of temporary workspace for your staff and a reliable project team. Involving employees and communicating information minimizes concern and confusion and increases their enthusiasm for the project. Contact us for actual success stories. We can do the same for you.
Can we reuse and reconfigure our existing systems furniture?
This can be very cost-effective if your workstations still meet your needs. The least expensive way to do this is to use ONLY the parts you have to make the new configuration. The more changes you make, the more your savings diminish.
If you need more workstations than you have and your product is still available, you can stretch your inventory and update the look by adding some new features like lower height panels or mobile pedestals. Some manufacturer's panels or tiles can have new fabric applied. Certain products are more flexible than others. Key parts like connectors and electrical components can change with each version of the product and may no longer be compatible. You may find that using the same product and buying additional parts to match may be MORE expensive than buying new product.
Can you get our building permit approvals?
Yes. You may require City, Municipal and State approvals. InteriorLOGIC can obtain all required approvals for your project so your team can get right to work.
How do I know how many square feet I actually have?
Whether you lease, own or assign internal charge-backs, you need to know actual square footage. We measure to BOMA standards or use the format that best suits your specific needs. We provide AutoCAD floorplans.
How do I get rid of Beanie Babies and NOT be the bad guy?
All of our clients receive our complimentary Facility Procedures Handbook. The handbook includes recommended guidelines but you can edit it to make it your own.
The owner of the building I'm considering has offered to provide a floor plan. Is this a good idea?
It's just good business to have a trusted and experienced advisor separate and independent from the building you may be considering. We're with you all the way, comparing each building, features and benefits to other buildings you may be considering. At InteriorLOGIC we provide planning and design services for our clients every day: preparing plans and specifications, evaluating pricing, negotiating on our client's behalf and collaborating with our strategic partners. We maximize value at every turn. We know what to look for while we look out for your interests.
My Significant Other has great taste. Do I need a professional to design my office?
Of course they have great taste, they chose you, right? But the planning and design of commercial space is multi-disciplined and complex and can be a long haul. We recommend an experienced professional.
Contact
Robin: rstroebel@intlogic.com
Kevin: ksorg@intlogic.com
