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What to look for when searching for a serviced office

2 min read

12th August 2016

It can be difficult to know where to start when searching for office space, as there are various options available.

Adelaide, South Australia, is known as a more traditional office market where companies usually associate office space with long term leases and the occupation of standalone office buildings.

Another choice for businesses which surfaced in the 1960’s but has only become increasingly more popular in Adelaide over the past 15 years, is known as the serviced office. In fact, there is a whole serviced office industry that you may not even know about.

A serviced office comprises of a building with many offices ranging in all shapes and sizes that offers most, if not all of the necessary services required to operate a business from. It provides you with the flexibility to view a space one day and move into it the next. This doesn’t mean that these spaces are typically a short-term option for companies as many view convenience and flexibility to be more important than having their own building.

Below we detail what you can look for when searching for and visiting a serviced office site:

Quick turnaround from enquiry to move in
Flexibility with length of term of tenancy
A range of office sizes (and the ability to relocate within the building)
Low start-up costs
Convenience (car parking, reception staff, mail services, etc)
Opportunity for an office in a great location
Working in your own space, yet being amongst other businesses in the same building

If this sounds like something that suits you and your business, detailed below are a few important areas to consider when searching for serviced office space:

What’s your budget?

What best suits you, or your team and what are the key factors to consider? Don’t be afraid to be upfront and honest painting an accurate picture of what you require and what you expect in return. The provider will help you in the best possible way to come up with a suitable package.

What’s your ideal location?

What are the benefits of the location for your business? Do you need to be in the city where parking may be difficult and expensive? Access for deliveries may also be restricted. Is being closer to the airport more convenient for you and your clients? Seeking a prime, prestigious business location with stylishly designed offices and up to date amenities, conveying a good impression on your visitors is going to enhance your professional reputation.

What facilities do you need?

What about the benefits of parking, is it included? Are there meeting/conference rooms available? Are cleaners available to clean your office? Is there a good quality coffee machine? (a good way to impress the clients!). Look for clean and modern offices, state of the art equipment (for example, internet / high speed connectivity and effective air conditioning). Consider the size of the room needed and do you prefer a window or is it more cost effective without one? (remembering that daylight in your office improves sleep, physical activity and quality of life).

What kind of help do you need?

When looking for a serviced office, you will be provided with the basic office services such as administration services, reception (greeting of your clients), postage and courier send / receive facilities. Not having to hire such staff to perform these tasks will in turn reduce your overheads, plus while you are away on business trips you can rest assured knowing that your office is in good hands.

What flexibility do you require?

What are the terms, are you happy to sign up for an extended period or do you need flexibility? Also keeping in mind the future may include the growth of your business which in turn will require alternative spaces for you to expand into.

So there you have it, after considering the above you are ready to start your search.

Simon Tripodi is the General Manager of Dancorp Offices in South Australia and has been in the serviced office industry for over 10 years.