What to Watch Out for in an Older Business Park

Finding office space to fit your workforce, technology, and productivity can be a challenge. The type of business model is also an important component as it addresses customer and vendor traffic and your budgets dictate the ability to locate a diverse selection of options to choose from. Here are four categories to consider when looking at older business parks and what to watch out for.

Configuration
Older business parks have several features in place including space configuration. While building management is willing to make changes to a client’s specification, there are some limitations. Budgets will drive if the current layout of an office space will suffice. Making changes to have adequate open space with private offices and a conference room are general necessities. Employee break rooms and lounges is an additional need that pays dividends in productivity though you may not first think of it that way. Older business parks will have a variety of these types of spaces ready for immediate occupancy. Ask an expert at Sullivan Engineering for a consultation to see what recommendations they might make for renovations and updates.

Lights and Technology
Adequate lighting and sufficient electrical outlets are crucial in securing a successful office space. This is also the easiest change an established business park can accommodate since business is impossible to carry out without outlets. Make sure to involve the head of technology so installation of computer equipment will be seamless. After the space configuration has been confirmed, add to existing lights those from the office inventory such as desk lamps. During the process, get detailed information from building management about changes allowed for future upgrades to lighting and technology. 

Noise
From a productivity perspective, open space in the office with cubicles leads to more communication as well as a team work. Co-workers can engage each other in real-time with ideas to move projects forward. The drawback with an open space is the noise factor. There are employees who work best in a quiet environment, while others prefer the group synergy. This is where the business model consideration is essential. For example, if the business has traffic from customers and vendors, older business parks will need to meet this requirement while minimizing employee distractions. Find ways to segregate your spaces and move traffic through the best way possible without disruptions.

Parking
In most cases, older business parks come with ample parking. However, this is a big feature to consider for employees. Having to relocate to a new address for work, followed by a new expense with parking can be a costly disadvantage. Answering the customer impact question should also play a key role with parking. Try to ensure parking will not add any undue burden on the business bottom line and make sure there is enough to keep everyone satisfied.

Well-established business parks make great choices for relocation. Keeping the business model and budget first will facilitate the ability to find the best new address. A caveat is the location to major roadways and public transportation, which older parks generally have in common. Decision-makers will need to review all business park locations to optimize their return on investment.