Laing + Simmons Newcastle Central Case Study

Project Scope

Multifunction Printer: Sharp MX3071
Complete furniture fit-out: Deluxe Infinity Range – Modular Desking, Boost Electric Workstations, Rio Task Seating 

About Laing+Simmons Newcastle Central 

In October 2019, real estate agency Laing+Simmons opened their first office in Newcastle, formerly operating under the well-known independent brand Nest Realty Group.

Michael Barber and the team rebranded to Laing+Simmons to facilitate the next phase of growth while maintaining the customer focus that has been the hallmark of success for the family business.

Laing+Simmons Newcastle Central provides a full suite of real estate services to the community, including residential sales, auction campaigns, leasing and property management, project marketing, market appraisals, and more.

With advanced marketing and support systems to draw on, as well as a mandate to innovate as part of the award-winning boutique Laing+Simmons group, their team is focused on adding value to their customers – irrespective of where they’re at in their property journey.

In 2021, Laing+Simmons Newcastle identified the need to move to new premises for additional office space and to provide ease of access and convenience to both its staff and customers. 

An ideal location fronting the revitalised Pearson Street Mall was secured, right in the heart of Charlestown. The mall is the gateway to the city’s largest indoor/outdoor shopping destination in Newcastle and the Hunter region.  

The Challenge

Reliability – A multifunction device with low maintenance costs and professional quality printing
Usability – Ensure a multifunction device is easy to use with minimal training for staff 
Customer Service – Reliable, consistent, and timely technical support and service for a multifunction device 
Maximise space – Designing a workspace that maximises space in line with business growth 
Timeframe – Work within short timeframe constraints for complete office fitout 

The client sought to implement a multifunction device in line with the copying, printing, and document management requirements of the business, as well as a commercial office fit-out that provided an inspiring and functional workspace and catered for future growth. 

The client did not intend on taking on the tiring task of carrying out each phase of the office fit-out themselves or managing all the moving parts of setting up a new office that would take time and energy away from their actual work duties. With tight timeframe constraints and limited space, the project was best suited to a commercial fit-out expert. 

Sharp Office was engaged for its technical expertise, project management experience, fresh perspective, and professional recommendations. 

“When we started planning our move to a new office, I did not intend to work with multiple suppliers or retailers to get the new office setup. It was good to engage Sharp Office to take care of both the printing and the furniture fit-out. The office layout presented some challenges, but Greg worked it out so well. We are really happy with it.

“We were spending so much time on our existing printer, either it wasn’t printing or jamming paper all the time. Our previous tech support was slow to respond and often it was a costly exercise. All we wanted was something simple, something that was easy to use and wouldn’t take up our sales agents’ time.” – Michael Barber, Director, Laing+Simmons Newcastle 

The Solution

Simplify – Sharp Office supports all employees to ensure comfort with the new solution
Customer support – Easy diagnostic guide and end-user training and support for a multifunction device  
Quality – Printing output that is high-quality and professional yet economical for day-to-day operations 
Functionality – Design and space planning experience achieved a pleasant working environment within the limited space   

With knowledge of layout, light, and space, the Sharp Office professionals created an office design that makes full use of Laing+Simmons’ available workspace. Creating a high-quality result that demonstrates strong technical skills in everything from assembly to interior design. Budget, timeframes, and limited available space were factored in as well as the client’s vision for the business.

Professional recommendations were made for a replacement multifunction device that meets the client’s printing, copying, and document management needs. The Sharp Office professionals worked with the client’s specific requirements associated with maintenance costs, running costs, professional quality, ease of use, and time responding to any issues. 

The printing output needed to meet the intent of the illuminated LED poster display system installed in the Laing+Simmons Newcastle office window. Featuring a showcase of properties for sale and lease, the display system houses A3 posters printed in full colour on translucent paper, which are backlit revealing a superior quality finish.

“There was the consistent follow-up from Nick at Sharp Office. The communication was excellent, everything was well organised, and we were aware of timeframes at all stages. Any delays due to the pandemic were advised quickly, and alternative solutions were always proposed. This process was important for us while continuing to operate a busy agency. We are very happy with the outcome.” – Michael Barber, Director, Laing+Simmons Newcastle