... that's not the kind of consulting I do, so I haven't had to deal with it. But I remember back when I was an employee and we moved offices -- what a nightmare! For some reason, having enough network jacks and power outlets is always a problem -- no matter how many you put in.
Good list, Susan.
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Every time someone moves IT, it's a monster of a mess -- I have a friend who's done it 5 times now for the same company and it's always a dismal failure, but not because she doesn't try, but because management usurps her decisions.
It's definitely not high on my list, but I don't turn down work generally.
It's definitely not high on my list, but I don't turn down work generally.
This is a great article. Especially since the author states up front the importance of negotiating a different, separate contract for the relocation.
I own a company that specializes in helping companies and their I.T departments move. Although 90% of our clients already have a full fledged I.T department, we still get to work either for, or with companies that rely on a smaller out sourced I.T services firm or sole practitioner.
An office relocation is more complex and more intricate that you?ve probably ever imagined. At PcDisconnect, we?ve done thousands of them, and it took a long time to get our system (and our expectations) in place, and in check. Here are some more tips that I?d recommend:
Firstly, when negotiating your contact, you should try to avoid either a flat rate, or a specific time line. Delays can stem from a double-booking of the freight elevator, a problem with furniture installation, union issues, untested and non-functioning electrical outlets to traffic delays or a slow mover. Trust me, you can plan all you want to, but you have very little control or say over when and how your space will be ready for desktop and server placement.
Secondly, the project manager from the chosen moving company, and the job supervisor should be on your speed dial. Communicating with them about what should be loaded first and where to stage equipment is critical. We had staff waiting until 4am to complete a job simply because the domain controller was mistakenly packed first and took forever to get off the trucks. (Hence avoiding flat rate project fee?s.)
Insurance ? Many states, including New Jersey (where PcDisconnect is based) are required by law to only insure articles that they transport for $0.60 a pound. That means that your new beast of a SQL Server is worth about $48.00. Think about additional insurance.
Packing ? The way many movers pack servers, switches and desktops may look scary, but from our experience, it is very safe. For your high end equipment you definitely want to look over the packing crew to make sure everything goes smoothly. Don?t worry about the moving blankets and cardboard boxes. Movers are professionals and they know how to pack. If you are still uneasy, you can check out server packing information from companies like Rent A Crate, Morgan Industries and Tiger Box.
Bringing in an expert ? If you are worried about your office relocation, you can always bring in an expert. Move consultants, computer disconnect and reconnect companies (like mine www.PcDisconnect.com !) provide full management services for a small fee. You can also email me if you have any concerns.
In closing, please remember that moving house, and moving offices have nothing in common. Please; trust me on that!
Jonathan Morris
PcDisconnect.com
I own a company that specializes in helping companies and their I.T departments move. Although 90% of our clients already have a full fledged I.T department, we still get to work either for, or with companies that rely on a smaller out sourced I.T services firm or sole practitioner.
An office relocation is more complex and more intricate that you?ve probably ever imagined. At PcDisconnect, we?ve done thousands of them, and it took a long time to get our system (and our expectations) in place, and in check. Here are some more tips that I?d recommend:
Firstly, when negotiating your contact, you should try to avoid either a flat rate, or a specific time line. Delays can stem from a double-booking of the freight elevator, a problem with furniture installation, union issues, untested and non-functioning electrical outlets to traffic delays or a slow mover. Trust me, you can plan all you want to, but you have very little control or say over when and how your space will be ready for desktop and server placement.
Secondly, the project manager from the chosen moving company, and the job supervisor should be on your speed dial. Communicating with them about what should be loaded first and where to stage equipment is critical. We had staff waiting until 4am to complete a job simply because the domain controller was mistakenly packed first and took forever to get off the trucks. (Hence avoiding flat rate project fee?s.)
Insurance ? Many states, including New Jersey (where PcDisconnect is based) are required by law to only insure articles that they transport for $0.60 a pound. That means that your new beast of a SQL Server is worth about $48.00. Think about additional insurance.
Packing ? The way many movers pack servers, switches and desktops may look scary, but from our experience, it is very safe. For your high end equipment you definitely want to look over the packing crew to make sure everything goes smoothly. Don?t worry about the moving blankets and cardboard boxes. Movers are professionals and they know how to pack. If you are still uneasy, you can check out server packing information from companies like Rent A Crate, Morgan Industries and Tiger Box.
Bringing in an expert ? If you are worried about your office relocation, you can always bring in an expert. Move consultants, computer disconnect and reconnect companies (like mine www.PcDisconnect.com !) provide full management services for a small fee. You can also email me if you have any concerns.
In closing, please remember that moving house, and moving offices have nothing in common. Please; trust me on that!
Jonathan Morris
PcDisconnect.com
... that cries out for an expert.
Is there plenty of business available, though? Has the economic downturn impacted that, too?
Is there plenty of business available, though? Has the economic downturn impacted that, too?
You need a VERY good project manager.....
preferably one with no family commitments, and insane dedication to the company.
The move process is very similar to an actual IT Disaster scenario, only it lasts longer, is more complicated, and you do it to yourself.
preferably one with no family commitments, and insane dedication to the company.
The move process is very similar to an actual IT Disaster scenario, only it lasts longer, is more complicated, and you do it to yourself.
I agree mostly -- I can't imagine what all goes into moving a truly large IT department -- boggles the mind.
Thank you for the additional information -- this is exactly the kind of detail that will help readers!
Yes, it is well worth the time and expense to hire a moving professional, even when it comes to a small business. There can be a considerable loss of time and productivity if the business tries to to do too much on its own. A business needs to remain conducting its own "business" as much as possible during a move. The ideal is to have a seamless transition, avoiding distractions and delays wherever possible. It is also extremely important to find a "moving professional that specializes in moving businesses." There is a free resource that can get you in contact with local business moving professionals along with many other helpful aids. Look at : http://www.officevelocity.com/
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