Moving is a PAIN! Yes, it can be an exciting time for your business, but it’s also a HUGE hassle. You’ve got to negotiate a lease, schedule movers, plan for downtime for your business, send change-of-address notifications, and on and on. It’s a long task list—and one that should include the relocation of your computer system. You’d be surprised how many small business owners totally forget about their computers when planning for an office move. Here’s a quick checklist to keep handy when planning the move:
1. Make sure your new office has enough network and phone jacks. Before you move into your new office, contact your IT provider and schedule a “walk through” of the new office space. You should provide them with a blueprint of the office layout. Plan out where cubicles and desks will be located and make sure there are network and phone jacks in those areas.
2. Take this opportunity to upgrade your Internet. Research the local Internet providers and contact them to request quotes for Internet service. If you have a server that hosts your company’s email, website, or VPN, then you will probably need a static IP address. Be sure to request one with the quote. You will also need to work with your IT provider to plan and schedule the cut-over to the new Internet service. Your IT provider will probably need to meet the new Internet provider on site to make the necessary changes to your server or firewall equipment. This is a crucial part of the move since you could find yourself without email for days if this is not planned ahead of time. Lastly, some Internet providers will even pay for your IT provider to make these changes so be sure to inquire about that.
3. Don’t forget about your telecommuters. If you have workers who connect to the office from home, then they may need to have changes made to their VPN software in order to connect to the new office after the move.
4. Contact your phone system company. You may use a different company for phone support. If so, they may also need to complete a “walk through” of the new office. They will definitely need to be on site during the Internet installation to ensure your phone system is functional after the move.
5. Have your IT provider disconnect and reconnect your computers. Contact your IT provider and have them come on site and label and disconnect your computer and network equipment before the move. Once the equipment has been moved to the new office, be sure to have them reassemble your equipment and test it to ensure that everything is working seamlessly.
By planning ahead, you can make the relocation of your computers pain-free.