Expansion with a Small Budget
When your business – or your family – has expanded beyond the capacity of your facility or home, it’s probably time to get some professional advice on the best way to address the challenge. Sometimes, the challenge (large) peaks just when the budget (small) can barely accommodate the needs.
That’s probably the best reason to slow down, ask a lot of questions before you make big decisions and take a deep breath before you expend those limited funds. It is the right time to consult with your local experts.
Almost without exception, the most anxiously asked question is: How much is it going to cost? In fairness, the most immediate right answer is: We don’t know! Yet!
Solutions come in all configurations. Your design team will be very careful to help you develop a solution that’s right for your expansion needs, will fit your limited budget and will cause minimal disruption of business. “Expansion” can be achieved in a variety of ways – and is not limited to the obvious answer of merely adding more physical space.
It is very frustrating to realize that your available space is not serving your current needs. In the midst of that kind of dilemma, it is easy to conclude that additional space, or a different location, are the only options.
However, additional space may not be what must happen! Consider these possibilities: Radically change the way existing space is being used; reconfigure and repurpose a specific area; or, fully revise the use of all areas. Those are practical approaches that may be overlooked in the frustration of meeting the daily challenges of an expanding business or home – and just wanting more space!
When expansion absolutely does demand physical relocation of your business operation, that challenge becomes more complex. Relocation demands changes of many kinds. It creates disruption of business rhythms, employee efficiency and everything connected to what you wish to deliver to your market share.
The first best step is getting fresh, professional input to clearly assess your options. Take a thorough look at how you project your business growth for the next three to five years, and how the growth potential of your market region lines up with those expectations. Review how your budgeting rhythms look for management of the inevitable investment in expansion.
Limited funds might indicate the wise choice of approaching expansion in measured stages. Perhaps a separation of some functions such as a temporary relocation of one aspect of your operation (such as an off-site administrative department) until cash flow allows a full reunion on one, improved or entirely new site.
Expansion when the budget is smaller than ideal demands creative thinking. Your professional design team has a lot of experience with businesses addressing growth with the added challenges of limited funding. Take a step back and look at the situation from a variety of perspectives, and take advantage of the experience of others!
Photo contributed by Robert Boccabella
You will know when it’s time to expand! If the need out-distances your budget, it is time for creative solutions.