Are you planning to or in the process of relocating or expanding your business? It’s an exciting time, but also a time to be strategic. As chaotic as moving to a new space can be, taking the time to consider your IT needs at your new location can end up saving you a lot of time, money, and frustration. IT teams don’t usually get the opportunity to provide input on how IT friendly a new location is, but if you can include them in the process, it can pay off. In this article, we’ll outline the most important aspects to consider when moving to a new office location.
Internet and Phone Cabling
Internet and phone services are always taken for granted. We assume every location is modernized and ready to serve our needs, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes new and updated underground internet cable will need to be installed to handle the speeds and connection strength your business requires. Bringing someone from your IT team with you as you look for new office space is a good idea, so you know what you have and what you need.
Think About Conference Rooms
Will you need conference rooms in your new office space? If so, do you know the wiring requirements you’ll need to make your conference room function the way you want it to? You want your conference room to look clean, professional, and be ready to perform. Too often, the planning gets overlooked, and you have a messy conference room that’s with cables running everywhere. Knowing your needs and getting your cabling set up before you order furniture will result in a finished conference room you’ll be happy to do business in.
Understand What You Have to Work With
If you get lucky and move into a space with modernized and up to date cabling and infrastructure, congratulations. But chances are you’ll be paying for it in rent. Before you move in and set up shop, you need to have a clear understanding about how well the existing technology has been maintained and what it’s capable of. How is the WIFI? What kind of cables is the network relying on? Is your hardware compatible with the underlying infrastructure, or will you encounter lag and downtime? How are the security and ventilation? Putting your valuable equipment and systems in the wrong space can result in a costly disaster.
What to Expect
Unless you find the perfect space and are able to use the building’s existing office spaces, cubicles, and layouts, you’re going to need new network cabling in some areas. Bringing your IT team in early will help you get WIFI mapping set up for optimal coverage through walls, floors, and other large areas. Even better, connect your construction and operations team with your IT team so they can work together to get the foundation laid out before you start moving in new furniture and desks.
Need Help Setting Up the IT Infrastructure for Your New Office?
If you are looking to make a move into a new office space Communications Solutions, Inc. can help you plan for your IT needs. We connect businesses to technology through Audio Visual, Structured Cabling, Physical Security, and Business Phone Systems and have over 30 years of experience in the telecommunications industry. Contact Us today and we can work together to plan for your big move.
(904)-777-6656