Currently, we run operations out of three (3) locations. Luckily, all are within a 20 minute drive time from each other. So to make meetings at all locations within a single day is good.
Early this month we received an RFP to support a facility approximately 360 miles away. The first thing we thought about after saying yes we can support that, is how can we effectively support that?
The first thing that came to mind was a lot of drive time, about five and half hours of driving (one way). That meant at least three overnight trips a month (if not more at first). Then how would the other locations suffer? How would ALL locations suffer? Right now we have the luxury of being able to drop what we are doing and address whatever issue arises when it arises.
That is the true luxury of having a small business: The ability to turn on a dime.
As opposed to Medium to Large Enterprises which inherently are unable to turn on a dime. That's because there are more top level individuals as opposed to one or two in a 'Mom and Pop' operation. They also have a bulging middle that flairs out to the bottom.
Did I just describe a funky looking Railroad Lantern?
By taking on a location over 360 miles away will obviously expand our reach. It will also force us to move to the next level in our "A" Game. It will also take us to places we haven't been or seen. It will force change.
Of course, with change will come resistance and blind jumping (as you are wandering into uncharted territory).
So whether we get the contract or not, things will be changing. Change in that we need to address now how we will EFFECTIVELY & EFFICIENTLY lead, support, and manage those individuals assigned to any future remote locations.
We'd like to hear from you on what you recommend when it comes to managing remote locations.
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