One of Philadelphia's leading research universities was embarking on a refurbishment of one of its campus buildings. With the focus on continuing to improve learning and innovation for wet bench research, the project was raising the bar for research and development in higher education in the area.
The project was already underway when MovePlan was brought in to support the initial phase of several enabling moves. The programme required the lab to be moved to a new building located a block away,which added to the project’s operational complexity. In addition, MovePlan was required to clear out existing lab space in another pre-renovated building and reduce its footprint. In total, the move would impact 30 people and require 300 items to be moved, including microscopes, centrifuges, ultra low temperature freezers, and CO2 incubators.
Lab moves are always complex, no matter how large or small they are. Aside from the complexity and delicate nature of moving lab items, communication challenges often arise. One of the first tasks was to manage expectations regarding the design and layout of the space. This required a focused effort in bringing together the professors, educating them on how the new lab would work and supporting them in their own planning.
While the project was underway, the need for more of MovePlan’s time and expertise changed. Initially hired for pure move management, it was clear very quickly that MovePlan's expertise in lab readiness was required. This addition became crucial. The team's deep experience of laboratory moves allowed the quick pivot needed to keep the project on track.
To achieve the move on time, MovePlan brought people together to collaborate on timelines to ensure the lab equipment could be installed in time, and added extra checks to ensure that on walk throughs,nothing was left unnoticed or unchecked. It was a very complex lab project, with a very short lead time, with the project having to be completed in time for students to return to finish their studies ahead of graduation. The deadline for completion dictated the project and was non-negotiable. This requirement made the project extremely challenging. Completion by the term start date was essential—any delay risked students being unable to finish their studies and graduate.
The team’s experience and dedication to the project ensured the move was completed on time, despite the challenges and complexities that arose. Thanks to effective organisation, coordination, and collaboration by the MovePlan team, university students were able to resume their studies after the festive break and complete their degrees.
