The space where you conduct your business is the heart and soul of your company. Thus, it is only fitting that you optimize your area of operations to create an atmosphere that screams professionalism and efficiency, and which both your clients and employees admire.
But to make this happen, you’ll need the expertise of an interior design and fit-out company to revamp your business space.
When looking for the right interior fit-out partner, there are many things to consider first. Here are key tips that will help you find the best partner in this undertaking:
1. Do your own investigation
With the convenience modern technology offers, a good place to start your investigation is through the company website.
Reputable fit-out companies will not hesitate to post testimonials from their previous clients on their website. And because these companies know their capabilities and have nothing to hide, it will not be difficult for you to find positive customer feedback.
However, you shouldn’t rely solely on their website as nothing compares to a great recommendation from a trusted colleague or friend, or reviews found on reputable sites like Yelp, Facebook Ratings and Reviews, and the Yellow Pages.
Also, if you happen to come upon an office with interiors you admire, don’t hesitate to inquire about which company did such an excellent job. That’s already one company added to your list of prospects.
Narrow down your options if you can, look up each interior fit-out company’s website and portfolio, and see if they make the cut.
2. Evaluate their level of expertise
As much as possible choose a fit-out company that has the required expertise and a wealth of experience. This way, you can trust that the team that will work with you will get the task done properly and on time, within the agreed schedule.
Asking questions will also help you have a clear picture of what to expect during the project. It’s important to ask all questions you have (even the ones you think are “stupid”), and make sure their answers make you comfortable enough to put your trust in them.
Make sure the fit-out partner you choose offers you comprehensive service. Check if they are using the latest technical innovations and developments in the field of office design. With an expert doing the job and giving you trustworthy advice, you can make the right decisions while working on improving the productivity and well-being of your employees.
Have a look at their previous projects.
Most fit-out companies will have a project or portfolio section that showcases photos of their past office interior design projects. If you see that what they offer is not the quality you expect for your office, then find a better fit-out partner that you can work with.
3. Consider your budget
A budget-savvy fit-out company is always upfront with the costs from the beginning. The last thing a reputable fit-out partner will do is allow sudden costs and fees to affect the project later on. Make sure to ask about how they work with fixed budgets and how they conduct cost control.
A good fit-out partner will work around your given budget and find ways to reduce expenses while maintaining quality, i.e. by installing LED lighting technology which is a cost effective lighting solution. Also don’t forget to evaluate the firm’s financial standing and viability.
4. Check for certifications and insurance
Some interior fit-out companies may claim to be industry certified, but you should check these claims. When you meet them, check if the certificates they claim are displayed prominently in their office. You can also request for them to give you a copy of those certificates or ask where you can find copies of the same their website.
Another factor to check is if the company has insurance policies to cover their projects. This is a vital aspect to consider so that you don’t end up with huge, unexpected financial losses due to errors during project implementation.
Partner up wisely
No business owner wants to have his or her money wasted on a fit-out partner that doesn’t deliver.
When it comes to choosing an office fit-out company, even a small amount of research makes a world of difference as it can help you achieve your business objectives in terms of your area of operation within the best terms possible.
AUTHOR BIO
Shane Curran
CEO at Interact Group LLC
Interact Group is a design-led interior fit out company that aims to set new standards in the UAE interiors market. Driven by their dedication to total customer experience, the company's mission is to bring truly specialized teams to complex design and fit out challenges, utilizing their unmatched ability to deliver spaces efficiently and above expectation.