Maximizing End User Value: Integrating a Storage Solutions Partner Early in Building Design
In the dynamic world of industrial architecture and development, there’s a crucial choice to be made between building to suit and building on spec. Both options come with their own set of challenges and opportunities. However, one key factor can significantly impact the success of any industrial project: integrating a storage solutions partner early in the building design process. This collaboration ensures that the end user’s operational needs are met while providing versatile designs for long-term ROI.
Building to Suit: Meeting Operational Goals from the Outset
Building to suit involves working closely with the end user to tailor the facility to their unique operational needs. When architects and developers engage a storage solution provider in the early stages of design, they gain invaluable insights into the client’s requirements. This partnership allows for a deep dive into the client’s operations, understanding their workflows, inventory types, and throughput demands.
Moreover, the involvement of a storage solutions partner at the design stage can provide recommendations for the layout of the building to accommodate specific storage systems. This approach ensures that the facility is optimized for efficient storage and retrieval processes. The result is a building that precisely aligns with the end user’s goals and operational requirements, which can lead to increased productivity and overall satisfaction.
Building on Spec: Versatility and ROI
In contrast, building on spec involves constructing industrial spaces without a specific end user in mind. Architects and developers working on spec projects can still benefit significantly from early collaboration with storage solutions providers. By doing so, they can design buildings with as much versatility as possible to attract a broader range of potential end users.
One common challenge in spec buildings is the layout design, particularly when it comes to integrating racking systems. Issues with egress, column placement, and slab loads can arise, leading to costly time studies and permitting delays. By working with storage solution experts early in the design process, architects and developers can better anticipate these issues and design spaces that align more closely with market demand. This, in turn, reduces delays and potential financial setbacks.
Building Relationships for Mutual Success
Collaboration between architects, developers, and storage solution providers goes beyond the initial design phase. Building strong relationships is a key element in maximizing end user value and investor ROI. Architects and developers can partner with storage solution providers to understand current trends in the industrial space and the specific demands of the local economy on industrial buildings.
Activities like lunch and learns, site tours, and product demonstrations can foster these relationships and create a platform for meaningful discussions. This collaboration provides architects and developers with the insights they need to design spaces that not only meet current market demands but are also future-proofed to adapt to evolving industry requirements.
Efficient Design Practices: Aisle Width, Column Placement, and More
Efficient industrial building design relies on a deep understanding of standard aisle widths, column placements, lighting placement, and egress design. These factors play a pivotal role in optimizing storage systems and ensuring smooth operations within the facility.
For example, standard aisle widths must be accommodated to allow for the efficient movement of materials and equipment. Column placement should be strategically designed to maximize storage capacity without obstructing access or workflows. Thoughtful lighting placement enhances visibility, safety, and overall functionality. Egress design is essential for safety and regulatory compliance.
In conclusion, integrating a storage solutions partner early in the industrial building design process can significantly impact the success of a project. Whether building to suit or on spec, this collaboration ensures that the end user’s operational goals are met, design challenges are minimized, and versatile spaces are created to attract a wide range of clients. Building strong relationships and staying informed about industry trends further enhance the potential for investor ROI and end user satisfaction. Efficient design practices, incorporating factors such as aisle widths and column placement, are essential to delivering a facility that optimizes storage and operational efficiency. By placing emphasis on these collaborative and design aspects, architects and developers can create spaces that truly maximize end user value.
North American Steel has extensive experience working with Architects, Industrial Developers, and Consultants and over 50 years of experience as a pallet racking and storage solutions provider. Our in-house team of designers, engineers, and storage experts are happy to collaborate as early and as often as possible. Are you interested in discussing partnership opportunities with our team? Please contact us here.
