When a congregation or non-profit group is considering a building program of any size, it’s easy to overlook a range of issues that aren’t directly part of construction, but will likely occur before, during, and even after. These frustrating details have to do with all the disruptions caused by construction activity. Where will groups meet? Will they need help to move out or move in? Who will need temporary locations? How long will they need them? Will anything need to be stored? What about special events during construction?
When our clients form committees for building oversight and fundraising, we often advise them to also assign a group to just focus on transitions. If the construction consists of a new facility, committee members have a relatively simple, but important job. They need to schedule and coordinate moving and set-up in the new space, while cleaning out or wrapping up as needed in order to leave the old space. But for a renovation or addition project, some detailed planning will make a big difference in having a smooth transition to changed or new facilities.
This is the first of a series of posts about the advantages of having a transition committee or at least assigning someone to be responsible for these duties. Upcoming posts will include pointers and recommendations for churches or volunteer groups preparing for any large construction or renovation project.
