Things to consider when looking for a serviced office

If the last 2 years have taught us anything, it is that nothing is certain. None of us could have predicted the upheaval, confusion, chaos, and constant changes that we’ve been through. For businesses, adapting to new ways of working and establishing a ‘new normal’ has been challenging, and as no two businesses have experienced the exact same set of trials, we’ve all had to undertake our own experiments to see what works. Many businesses gave up their office space during the lockdown, opting for 100 per cent home working, whilst others downsized to maintain a ‘hub’ and accommodate staff that were unable to work from home. Now restriction have been lifted and attitudes are changing, some businesses are starting to re-think their requirements and investigate office spaces to suit their needs. For many, serviced offices are a good option, as they offer access to flexible managed services, with relatively low commitment. They can be a suitable home for entire businesses or offer regional workspace for otherwise remote staff. If you’re considering a serviced office, here are a few things to consider before making your decision…

Location, Location, Location

The postcode of your serviced office can be more important than you think. An address in a prestigious area can elevate a company’s brand instantly in the eyes of clients, potential clients and other stakeholders. On a more practical level, the location of the office and its local amenities can be an important consideration for visitors and employees alike. Think about who will be using the serviced office and what their requirements will be. How will they get there? Will they require overnight accommodation? Will they expect access to retail and other facilities? A city centre office may look impressive, but if it lacks parking and isn’t close to local transport links, it may prove too inaccessible. Equally, a rural retreat, with the most impressive views might not cut it if the nearest train station is miles away. You can rarely please everyone, but considering who will be using the office space most of the time is a good place to start.

What’s included?

Every serviced office has its own packages so ask questions and don’t presume anything. Statements like ‘fully managed’, can be misleading. Make sure you are aware of everything that’s included in the monthly service agreement and that there are no surprising hidden costs. Check whether services such as internet access, electricity, heating/air conditioning, refreshments, call handling, storage, IT support, security and cleaning are included or if some or all of them carry additional charges.  Also, there may be additional services that are important to your business such as meeting rooms and other occasional facilities. Find out how these are booked, their general availability and the associated costs. Depending on your requirements now and for future growth, you may find that access to these additional facilities is a key part of your decision-making process.

Furniture

If you don’t already have your own furniture, fitting out an office can be expensive. Some managed workplaces will offer fully furnished options. This might be attractive to businesses who are moving into an office for the first time or who want to trial a serviced space for a short period. If you do decide to opt for a furnished office, make sure your carefully inspect the furniture provided and document any pre-existing damage. Disputes over damage can be stressful and costly later on if this is not managed up front. Conversely, some businesses will already have their own furniture, so finding a facility that offers unfurnished offices to accommodate their existing items will be key.

Security & accessibility

The safety and security of staff, equipment and assets is of paramount importance to businesses. You need to choose a managed office that will provide reassurances that staff working early or late feel safe, that visitor movements are controlled and managed, and that if something were to go wrong, an effective action plan can be executed. Ask questions about out of hours access, procedures and give examples of your specific requirements to ensure your needs can be met.

Have you met the neighbours?

The size of the serviced offices that you require often dictates whether the space will be solely occupied by your company or shared with other businesses. Shared office space can breed a friendly and creative culture, appreciated by many. However, this many not be suitable for some businesses, especially for those whose business involves confidentiality or sensitive material. Understanding how shared facilities work, allocation of responsibilities and how disputes are handled are important areas to investigate before committing to shared serviced offices. Simple things like parking allocation, noise limits and use of communal spaces can make or break the success of the arrangement.

Future requirements

So, you think you’ve found the perfect serviced office space – great location, ideal facilities, lovely neighbours…But, have you considered your requirements for the future? If your business grows and you employ more people, is their scope to relocate within the same building? If so, what will the costs be? How often do larger spaces become available? Also, what happens if you decide to downsize and no longer require the space you’ve committed to? How long will you be tied into an agreement? As we have all seen for ourselves, we can’t be certain about the future, so choose a serviced office that can provide you with the flexibility you might need going forward and can adapt to the needs of your business.

In summary

The decision about where your business calls home is arguably one of the most important one you’ll have to make. However, choosing a serviced office that offers flexibility, fluidity and works for your business now and in the future takes away the risk. Make sure you’ve done your research and considered all your stakeholders and the decision to move to a serviced office could be the best one your business has ever made.

If you are looking for a serviced office, with great transport links on the edge of the Cotswolds, then come and visit Watermoor Point in Cirencester. It is a unique blend of office space for businesses of all shapes and sizes. Email space@watermoorpoint.co.uk or call 01285 424242 to book an appointment.