Moving the Office
| Publication year | 1985 |
| Pages | 1999 |
| Citation | Vol. 14 No. 9 Pg. 1999 |
1985, November, Pg. 1999. Moving the Office
Many firms in Colorado, and especially in the Denver metropolitan area, seem to be moving their offices. This column offers several suggestions which may be helpful in planning a move.
The first basic consideration is why the firm should plan a move. Is there a need for new space? The firm should meet to discuss those needs to be addressed by a move. The management committee or managing partner should make a list of the needs to be met.
Just wanting a change of pace is not a valid economic reason to move. However, it still may be a good management decision if the change in work space will create a more pleasant work environment, which in turn generates more billable work.
Does the firm require more physical space which cannot be obtained at the present location? Is it possible that additional available space is contiguous with the present space? If not, dividing the firm may create more problems than are solved. A psychological separation is created, which can lead to discontent. Providing support staff services may be more difficult, either with secretaries or legal assistants or with common office equipment, such as photocopiers and computers. Perhaps the available space within the existing building would require expenses close to those of a long move. Create a list of those space requirements.
Is the move required by a predominate client? Often clients providing substantial income to the firm will ask the firm to move closer to their offices. That desire may be rational or irrational, but if it is a key factor for the client, such a move should be considered. If appropriate, such a client may agree to absorb some of the moving expenses, or even the higher net expenses, if the move is truly for that client. The value of the business from the client must be measured against the total cost of the move.
The move may enhance new business in the substantive areas desired by the firm. If the firm plans to be involved in providing legal services to the commercial banking industry, for example, it may be important to move to the financial district. The firm must first have a mission statement containing objective data indicating the direction the firm is going. Thereafter, any move can be measured against the firm's goals for the next five or ten years...
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