A satellite office is an additional workspace outside a company's main office, serving a particular team or area. It can be considered by teams spread across the city, sales staff working near clients or people delivering a time-limited project. For example, a company headquartered on Istanbul’s European side might establish a smaller base for the team serving clients on the Asian side.
Identify the problem it should solve
Start with the objective: easier travel, proximity to clients or a shared project base. Selecting space before deciding who will attend and on which days can create unused capacity or a shortage of desks at peak times.
If you are testing a new area, consider team size and the expected period of use together. Include the effect of client visits and field work on office attendance rather than assuming everyone will be present every day.
Agree how the two offices work together
A satellite office is part of the company's information flow. People should know when the teams meet, how to access files and whom to contact for technical support. Assign responsibilities so people in different places have access to the information they need.
New colleagues should know who to contact and when the team meets in person. This helps the local workspace remain connected to the wider organisation.
Consider the role of a serviced office
A furnished workspace and agreed office support can simplify some of the preparation involved in opening another working location. Discuss connectivity, privacy, meeting use and the intended start date at the proposal stage. Visit the proposed office to see how it would meet those requirements.
Begin with a clear usage plan
- The team that will use the space and the person responsible.
- The busiest attendance days during a normal week.
- Client and meeting requirements.
- Attendance, travel and meeting needs to review at the end of the period.
SwissOffices locations in Istanbul can be considered as additional working bases that fit the movement of your team. A visit and a specific usage brief will make the discussion more useful.
