LSI Architects consolidate their work with Workspace mini

LSI Architects is a truly multi-sector architectural practice based in Norwich and London, and has been trading in one form or another since the late 1800s. With a strong track record in workplace, education, residential, health and eco builds the practice delivers a full service from master planning through to delivery.

Always keen to stay ahead of the game, LSI has procedures in place for the management of all project and contact information. Partner Ben Goode explains: "We are already an organised practice, keeping up-to-date spreadsheets and reports in each area of the business, and maintaining our contacts in Outlook. The problem is; this has created many silos of data, which fail to link together or communicate. In our industry, client relationship management is essential, and these pockets of information restrict us from seeing the whole picture."

LSI Architects carried out a review of information management products on the market. Their search criterion was for construction centric software, which would consolidate data in one central location against a project, and be easy to implement. After reviewing what was available LSI felt that the systems were out of their price range, until they were introduced to Workspace mini.

Workspace mini is the leading knowledge management software for small to medium architectural practices. An off the shelf solution, it stores information in one central repository and enables the efficient running of a business around core databases and standardised procedures. "Workspace mini was within our grasp offering excellent value for money" says Mr Goode. "The restrictions on customisation would make implementation easy and we found the Union Square sales team to be friendly, helpful and supportive. We spoke to other Workspace users and were told 'there was no pain, only pleasure' which helped confirm our decision."

LSI are looking to achieve numerous benefits from the implementation of Workspace mini, including faster decision-making and better quality communications and resourcing. The system will be implemented in two phases, starting in July 2011.