Lab Relocation Services: Why Operational Insight is Critical to Success

Understanding Lab Operations: The Foundation of Effective Lab Relocation Services

Successful lab relocation services require more than just logistics. They need a thorough understanding of how the lab operates on a day-to-day basis. Knowing what's happening in the lab, who the key contacts are within the client group, and whether critical workflows must be maintained during the transition is essential for effective lab relocation services.

Why Discovery and Communication Are Critical in Lab Relocation Services

A formal discovery process should be undertaken, including interviews or questionnaires of key laboratory and administrative personnel. This process is a collaborative one and requires the cooperation of all client team members. Depending on the size and culture of the organization, this can be a challenging exercise. Group leaders' roles within the organization may not be clearly defined, the level of access to scientists or personnel who have this information may be limited, and availability may already be stretched. In some cases, team members may also be resistant to the actual or perceived additional responsibilities associated with relocating a lab to the new location.

Because the process of acquiring this information falls outside the normal demands of time and availability for all involved, it is often met with varying degrees of success. The ability to impress upon the team the importance of obtaining and aggregating information without unnecessary disruption is an essential dynamic of the lab relocation discovery process. It needs to be led by individuals who can establish trust and credibility with the entire team by illustrating an understanding not only of how the lab operates but also of the scientists' and bench personnel's concerns in order to effectively and adequately perform their jobs during and after the move.

This deep understanding of lab operations allows lab relocation specialists to engage in meaningful conversations and deliver accurate insights to upper management. It plays a critical role in creating a practical and achievable lab relocation plan and budget.