In this series, we’ll discuss the important (but sometimes overlooked) steps in achieving a successful office fitout!

Getting started on your office fitout can feel like climbing a very steep (and very daunting) mountain. But like most challenging tasks, preparation is always key. In time, your fitout will be a huge milestone for your business and employees. Its impacts will be profound in the day-to-day life of your team and it will reenergise your space and company culture.

Breaking your fitout into stages is the best way to tackle it efficiently. Work through each stage with focus and you’ll avoid costly mistakes and missing out on anything critical (like compliances or legal documentations). In turn, you’ll have the space you envision and a budget that stays well within reason.

Take onboard the following steps as the first stage of your fitout; preparation.

1. Examine your existing space

To get the balance right in your new office fitout, first investigate the problems or tight spaces in your existing office. Examine how your team uses your office and see where the issues start.

How much time do they spend at their desks vs. in meeting rooms?
How exactly are kitchens and communal areas being used?
Does each person have enough individual space?
Are there areas that go to waste?
Is there enough storage? Consider each team or person and the specific storage they may need.
How many people come through your reception or entrance?

2. Ask questions

Who better to ask than the people working in the existing space everyday? Ask your team for their input and opinions. They’ll appreciate their voice is being valued and you’ll also get the most accurate issues to tackle. Bringing them on board for the transition to their new workplace will guarantee a smooth and happy workforce when you get there.

Ask your team:

• What do they like or dislike about the current office layout?
• If they could improve one thing, what would it be?
• What do they think is missing?
• What do they think is unnecessary?

3. Establish organisational priorities

Sit down with senior management to get a clear picture on the goals for the new office fitout. This might include budget discussions, or a timeframe for how long the transition should take.

You need to know:

• Are there specific operational issues or concerns (for example, technical, service or budget) that are pivotal to the new space?
• What does each team require to ensure maximum productivity?
• What are the specific timelines on the transition?

With all of this information, you’ll have sufficient information to move towards the next stage: defining your brief.