We’ve helped many law firms plan for a move to new office spaces. Since most firms move infrequently, most need some assistance planning and executing the relocation of their computer systems and circuits.
Now is your chance to learn from our experience. Here are some guidelines to help you plan your firm’s next move:
- Document your existing setup. During the move is not the time to reinvent your setup. Having a spreadsheet that details every connection for every device will make your setup go more smoothly.
- Verify your backups. It is not often possible to delay an office move due to failed backups. Make sure well in advance that your server and system configurations are backed up.
- Moving your servers and networking gear takes time. Allow for adequate staff and time to properly move, rack, cable and test your systems.
- Notify your data and voice circuit providers two months in advance of the move. You will need to fill out forms and answer questions before the provider will be able to submit the order to move your circuits.
- Discuss keeping your public IP addresses and phone numbers with your circuit providers. The voice and data circuit providers can “port†your existing IP addresses and phone numbers to your new circuits. With the same IP addresses and phone numbers, no configuration changes will be required to enable email flow or remote access after the move.
- Find a structured cable vendor that is approved to work in your new building. The circuit providers will install circuits (most often) in your new building’s basement. These circuits need to be extended by a cable vendor to a location in your suite near your networking and phone equipment.
- Have your structured cable vendor inspect and test your new office’s cabling. This is a good opportunity for the vendor to see your new site and discuss the specifics of extending your circuits.
- Identify the ports that will be used in the new office. Often each office and common space will have multiple data jacks. Coordinate with your office manager to determine desk locations and make a list of the jack numbers that will need to be connected after the move.
Still have questions or need help? Request a free consultation about your move now.
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