On Demand Presentation: Understanding Lab Needs and Managing Staff Expectations
An early responsibility for lab managers during the planning phase of a lab design project is to understand the needs from the lab users’ perspectives. The best way to start this process is to collect thoughts, ideas, and observations from everyone working in the lab. It is vital to actively listen to feedback and input. The people doing the work often have the clearest ideas about how the space can contribute to better outcomes for the lab.
The true “lab needs” are usually interspersed with a large number of “lab wants.” A good way to distinguish them is that “needs” solve problems for the lab, while “wants” make something better for individuals. Since most lab construction projects have limited budgets, focusing first on the needs is an important planning step.
View this special presentation from the 2024 Lab Design Conference, featuring Scott Hanton of Lab Manager. Scott will explore approaches to effectively determining the lab needs and managing expectations with the lab staff.
The information you provide will be shared with the sponsors of this content. Lab Design or its sponsors may contact you to offer you content or products based on your interest in this topic. You may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. For information on how to unsubscribe, our privacy practices, and commitment to protecting your privacy, check out our Privacy Policy
Keeping lines of communication open to the lab staff during the planning and construction phases of the project will help people understand the decisions that are being made. The lab staff and the lab manager who participate on the project team need to provide regular status reports.
There may be times when the reality of budgeting or construction interferes with the plans for the new lab space. These events will require new decisions. It is a best practice to meet with lab staff and get their input on choices and options for the new decisions. Keeping lab staff connected to the changes involved in the project helps to manage their expectations for the final result, and continues to make use of their knowledge and experience as new decisions are required.
These items will be highlighted:
Effectively collecting diverse input
Prioritizing options
Building consensus
Communication during the project
Open problem-solving as issues arise
The 2025 Lab Design Conference will be held in Denver, CO on May 11-14, featuring sessions focused on sustainable lab design, the future of technology such as AI and BIM, case studies of successful lab build/renovation projects, and more. For information on our agenda, networking events, exhibit hall, and behind-the-scenes local lab tours, visit https://www.labdesignconference.com/.
Speaker
Scott Hanton
Editorial Director
Lab Manager
