Considerations When Choosing a Workplace Design Specialist

Whether you're a start-up company, you're moving your headquarters to a new location or you've recognized the need for a different office layout, it's might just be time to hire a workplace design specialist.

However, it should be noted that while there are many people who tout themselves as workplace design specialists, not all of them have the characteristics, expertise or track records to give you the largest value for your investment.

As you investigate the best workplace design specialist for your needs, it's critical to keep the following considerations in mind so you get exactly what you require:

1. Look for experience

Though it might be tempting to hire someone who has a lot of "flash", don't be fooled by smoke and mirrors. You want to work with a workplace design team that has years of in-the-field experience, such as Mayhew, not just simply possessing the theoretical understanding of design.

The best way to ensure that you're getting the experience you deserve is to do a little online checking of the company. You can also ask for references.

2. Ask for pictures

Any legitimate workplace design group will have a multitude of photographs of clients' interiors to show you the scope of their work. Though some will only give you references to call, you want to choose a workplace design team like Mayhew that will provide references as well as a complete portfolio showcasing their work (Additionally, some workplace design firms will encourage you to visit their clients, if appropriate.)

3. Check into their preferred materials

Every workplace design company works with different material providers. Do a little legwork and look into the materials that your workplace designer is recommending. Certainly, a low bid can look attractive, but not if it's because the materials are inferior. You must have quality in order to maintain a workplace that will last.

4. Ask for ideas

Bringing the workplace design specialist(s) to your facility is an essential step in this process. Don't hesitate to extend an invitation immediately. Once they are in your location, they can give their feedback. Of course, they won't be able to put together a comprehensive schematic based on a single visit, but you'll know if they seem to understand and respect your corporate culture and direction.

5. Visit their Workplace

If you travel to the workplace of a workplace designer and you discover it's hardly conducive to a positive working environment, you may not want to hire that workplace design team. As the adage goes, "seeing is believing." If you believe they cannot maintain their own offices, it is difficult to believe they truly have faith in what they do.

6. Learn their process

Is this the first time you've worked with a workplace designer? Then it's necessary to ask about your prospective workplace design teams' processes. This allows you to figure out a timeline if you choose to work with a particular company, because you'll be able to gauge how long it will take to accomplish your job.

7. Ask a few of your employees for their input

During your initial meeting with possible workplace designers, encourage one or two key team members to sit in as well. This enables you to get feedback beyond what your instincts are telling you. And having other people in meetings can help you elicit more information from a workplace design group.