Step 1: Choose your internal project team. This is a big decision and it requires due care and attention. You need a strong but calm and reasoned project leader and a project team comprising all key departments. And a clear idea of your budget.

Step 2: Research. What works in your workplace and what doesn’t? What are your limitations and aspirations? What’s the long-term strategy? Is technology helping or is it hampered? We analyse your workspace and workflows, opinions and moods, costs and benefits, goals and needs.

Step 3: Building search & survey. If your current workspace isn’t right – in cost, location or spatial needs terms – you need one that can carry you through the next decade and beyond. A commercial property agent can find your new home and secure it on the right terms.

Step 4: Choose your fit-out specialist. Now you need an office refurbishment or relocation contractor to evaluate your workspace options architecturally, mechanically and electrically, and financially. It’s pros and cons time and outside expert insight will help you make the right decision.

Step 5: Design development & approvals. Here’s where your new workspace takes shape, considering everything from colour schemes and materials to collaboration space, workflows and departmental relationships. Give your office interior designers all the support, information and feedback you can.

Step 6: Lead-in to build. If you’re refurbishing your current offices, keep a watchful eye on productivity. Work closely with your fit-out partner to plan the refurbishment for minimal disruption and keep the whole office informed.

Step 7: The build and furniture installation. After all that planning you might be tempted to take a back seat during the fit-out. Don’t. Be proactive and don’t be afraid to ask your fit-out partner questions and make suggestions.

Step 8: Dilapidations. The least exciting part of any office relocation, but get it wrong and it could cost you dear. Commercial dilapidations clauses demand you leave your old office space as you found it. Make sure your fit-out planner has everything in hand.

Step 9: The big move. Get the best office removal firm you can, based on your fit-out partner’s recommendations. Back up your data, brief your staff and set up an orientation and welcome session or training pack for their brand new workspace.

Step 10. Relocation or refurbishment review. Once staff are settled and normality has returned, there’s bound to be the odd niggle. Get the project team together and conduct a full office review. It’ll be easy to iron out minor creases if you catch them early.