space-pod
looking at what can physically be delivered during a closure period. As an example, typically in city centre locations with reasonable access it is possible to relocate/refit between 50 and 160 deskpositions dependant on the complexity of the requirement. An environment requiring demolition, new carpet, decoration, new furniture, modifications/additions to power and data would be nearer the 50-person delivery over a typical weekend. Environments requiring a churn of personnel, IT and storage would be nearer a 160-person delivery, sometimes higher. So how do you achieve this? Firstly you need a specialist contractor that is dedicated to this type of work and you should expect to find that they have an in-house team with a combination of strong design and planning skills, supported by a strong on-site team who understand what is required. Often the on-site team will apply a shop fit labour model where each of the team is multi-skilled in what they can do, no electrician waiting for the carpet fitter waiting for the chippie etc. Usually the team starts by planning everything to the finest detail using proven project planning tools, including spreadsheets, drawings and schedules of exactly what needs to be done and where and when it needs to be done. Each element of the works is pre-planned, walked-through and documented so the site time as far as practical becomes 100% implementation. Now here’s the win for busy property professionals: if you find a good contractor with the right design
cover story
ethos, they can often design an implementation plan that doesn’t require swing space and will often deliver the whole project with each person only moving once, to their final positions. Just imagine the cost reduction in avoiding temporary
“We’re still constantly amazed at the number of property professionals we meet that, having done a full week’s work, then spend the weekend - or, even worse, are expected to spend the weekend - attending to
office churn projects.”
moves, and the user experience of no temporary decant for your personnel. Be careful here, though, because not all sub-contractors have the expertise to deliver this. It’s well worth asking the question when selecting your contractor and asking to speak to previous clients to see how they deliver. Once the delivery plan has been agreed and the staff locations set, then the site team can swing into action as the office closes
with each member knowing exactly what is required, all working calmly and efficiently with project management on site charting progress against the carefully prepared work plan. If IT is being removed from desks there is normally a clear documented process that ensures the IT is re- configured on the new desk exactly as it was left by the user when they left the office. Any issues with missing IT when they return
can be easily confirmed by looking at the project documentation. This alone can save property professionals countless hours chasing ghosts on a Monday morning. Depending on the complexity of the requirement, the contractor will work in carefully co- ordinated shifts to keep the project on track through the work cycle with carefully monitored waypoints en route. Once you have experienced working like this and have the trust in your chosen contractor then it is perfectly feasible to be able to leave site and let the contractor deliver against program with nothing more than an escalation number should anything untoward happen and require your intervention. So, go on, take the weekend off and see your friends and family, watch the football or even tell the dog its time for walkies!
Further information: Kevin Parker is MD of Space-pod, who specialize in delivering quality, well designed office space, often whilst you’re office is closed. Web:
www.space-pod.co.uk
www.pm-select.co.uk l july/august 2010 l Property Management Select l 51
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