How can you replace wallpaper around customers and staff without disrupting the retail experience?

Project Overview

A client determined that the damaged wallpaper in a high traffic area was distracting customers from their shopping experience.  The need to return the facility to normal was paramount to the client in that they specifically requested the work to be conducted during regular business hours rather than overnight.  However, the project had to be completed without disrupting the normal flow of business.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Remove damaged sheet of wall paper in a high traffic area.

2. Repair damaged drywall under the existing paper prior to replacing the wall paper.

3. Install section of new wall paper, while integrating it with the old wall paper.

4. Execute the project during business hours.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Avoiding additional damage to wallpaper surrounding area that needed to be replaced.

1. • The seams had to be carefully removed so that the older paper surrounding the damaged piece was not torn or damaged.

2. Ensuring repaired section of wallpaper is indistinguishable and new seams are tight.

1. • Resicom verified that the new section of wallpaper matched the existing section exactly, and that all seams were aligned in perfect coordination.

3. Completing the Project During Business Hours without disrupting the flow of business.

1. • Days known for slower retail traffic were scheduled over high-traffic weekends.
   • The crew systematically worked in marked off sections to have the least impact on the customers’ ability to access merchandise and move freely through the store.

4. Keeping customers out of the area being painted.

1. • Project Manager remained onsite to ensure that customers were protected from any potential hazards and to stay in constant communication with both management and Resicom technicians.
   • Project management also coordinated the relocation and protection of the large amount of breakables and delicate merchandise.

Summary

The execution of project was unique because we were working during business hours.  Resicom is confident that detailed project management and execution will not have adverse effect on a retailer’s daily revenue.  Regardless of working conditions or environment, Resicom is able to execute project completion that is consistent with our standards.

Case Study

What do you do when a school calls with mysterious pools of water in the halls?

Project Overview

A school contacted Resicom to respond to standing water that had pooled in a high traction hallway.  The client needed rapid response to avert any safety hazard posed to students and faculty, while minimizing damage to the building structure itself.  Resicom’s ability to quickly respond with a structured action plan would be the differentiator in helping restore the situation back to classes as usual- most likely to the disappointment of students.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Complete emergency site inspection at facility in order to determine cause of standing water.
2. Provide comprehensive project scope to client so quick decision could be made regarding repairs.
3. Execute the necessary demolition to reveal source of leak.
4. Repair leak, and take steps to prevent reoccurrence.
5. Provide a written inspection and photo documentation of all completed work.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Determining the exact location where the leak originated.

1. • Systematic inspection begins of possible leak culprits starting with area around bathroom countertop sinks.
   • Sinks are thoroughly inspected once demolition commenced.  On wall with evidence of standing water, technician makes a small cut out of the drywall to inspect the piping.  It is determined that the pipes are not the source of the leak.
   • Wood flooring is then targeted as area of leak source.  Wood planks are removed, and a clogged drainage system is discovered.
   • A plumber is dispatched to clean, rout, and repair the drain.
   • Technicians immediately return to replace wood flooring, repair drywall and repaint wall.

Summary

Because Resicom took a disciplined approach to systematically determine the source of the leak, demolition and subsequent repairs were minimized.  At Resicom we understand the frustrations clients experience when leaks disrupt the normal flow of a facility.  Resicom relies on not just our technical expertise, but our structured approach to get things back to normal.

CASE STUDY

How can you coordinate and execute multiple bathroom remodels in numerous locations nationwide within a tight deadline?

Project Overview

A retail client slated bathroom remodels throughout their nationwide locations.   Needing a quick turn around on a comprehensive scope and project completion, Resicom was ready to take on the challenge.  Relying on our structure helped deliver greater nationwide consistency for each facility restroom needing a face-lift.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Plan site visits to each location to complete assessment and provide accurate pricing to client.  Accurate measurement is key considering all sourced material would need to be based off of these calculations.
2. Secure all material including partitions, tile, countertops, drywall, paint, mirrors, toilets, sinks, etc.
3. Assign thorough, specialized crews for multiple locations.
4. Coordinate travel so that teams are effectively dispatched to grouped regions.
5. Procure support items for project including dumpsters at each facility.
6. Complete all demolition and build back each individual restroom.
7. Provide client with customized schedule for rollout and real-time updates on project progress.
8. Complete a final walk through with the client providing before and after photos.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Sourcing all of the materials needed in each city.
   • Suppliers were immediately contacted to begin the ordering phase of all material.
   • Measurements and drawings were submitted for partition orders two weeks in advance to ensure timely arrival.
   • A single floor tile supplier was contacted to coordinate delivery of all floor tile material needed nationwide.
   • Plumbing suppliers were contacted in each city to place necessary orders.
   • Countertops were ordered near home office and driven to each facility along with necessary tools and equipment to minimize shipping costs.
2. Coordinating technicians crews to maximize delivery.
   • In order to complete work by the clients deadlines, crews were scheduled in shifts to work around the clock.
   • Day crews complete demolition, followed by nights crews responsible for flooring installation.
   • Following day, shift crews return to fully complete restroom remodeling.
3. Nationwide remodeling project of all locations must be executed within tight scheduling deadlines.
   • Supervisor remains onsite at all times to provide status updates and detailed communication to home office.
   • Supervisor ensures crews operate effectively within schedule constraints, and to coordinate all material delivery.

Summary

Completing this project beyond the client’s expectations required detailed planning and project management to ensure each restroom was completed with minimal disruption.  Resicom listened to the client’s need for customized updates and verified information that each stage of the project was running smoothly.  Resicom creates options for our clients using our structure and communication, and in doing so opens possibilities.

Case Study

How do you respond with quick thinking solutions and resources when a car crashes through a storefront?

Project Summary

A national client who relies on Resicom for routine maintenance and exterior painting called us with a critical facility emergency.  At one of the client’s retail locations, a car had driven right into front of their building, causing tremendous damage to the structure.   The store facility was now exposed to the elements, with the merchandise left unprotected.  The client needed Resicom to react expeditiously so that the store would be sealed, with the facility ready to reopen and resume business in only a few days.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. An emergency crew had to be immediately assembled for briefing of project logistics, and to arrive onsite no later than that evening.
2. Crew had to acquire a cargo van to acquire and deliver all the proper material and tools.
3. Crew needed to remove, replace and dispose of damaged metal panels on storefront exterior.
4. Entire storefront needed to be repainted since the new panels are not the correct color.
5. All project execution had to be completed by 10 a.m. the following morning.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. At 8 am technicians had already been assigned jobs and were on the road.

1. • The operations department reacted quickly to identify which two technicians are best suited for this particular job.
   • Currently running projects are reorganized with additional manpower reallocated so that project delivery is not sacrificed.

1. The metal siding that is needed can only be sourced from Dallas, Texas.

1. • Our local technician in Dallas picks up the material and drives it to the project site to expedite turnaround.

1. The paint that is needed for the storefront is only available in St. Louis, MO.

1. • The storefront paint was picked up by the crew while in transit to the project location in Little Rock, AR.

1. All company cargo vans were currently assigned to other projects.

1. • The travel department acquired a cargo van for two days from a rental company.

Summary

At Resicom we understand the frustrations that a client may experience from emergency situations. We understand that the execution of projects often requires quick thinking, and flexible, creative options to offer the best possible solution to our client. Taking the initiative to find innovative solutions, particularly in emergency situations, is what we strive to do so that our client can get back to normal with their facility re-opening as planned.

CASE STUDY

How do you move a 400 pound eagle that doesn’t fly?

Project Summary

A client had a large concrete tree statue, with interior steel pole supports, in the middle of corporate headquarter lobby that needed to be dismantled and discarded.  However, a large, 400 lb. bronze eagle perched atop the tree holds special significance for the client and must be relocated to the new headquarters location.   Resicom is entrusted to carefully remove the eagle, deliver it to the new location, and ensure that the vacated lobby is returned to a normal condition after the removal of the focal point statue.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Dismantle and dispose of a 15 ft. decorative, concrete tree so facility is returned to neutral appearance for new tenant.
2. Detach 400 lb. eagle statue from its steel pole support and safely deliver to new location.
3. Once eagle is removed, dismantle and dispose of the 15 ft. steel support beam in the center of the tree.
4. Coordinate project execution with client representative to allow technicians access to vacated space.
5. Provide client with before & after photos of project execution.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Inclement weather prevented Resicom from getting the necessary hoist for the statue down to the loading dock as snow had not been plowed.
   • Resicom arranged with the loading dock manager to use an available fork lift to transport eagle statue.  The client was updated of the situation to provide approval.
2. The client considered the eagle as symbolic to the company’s good luck, not to mention that considerable monetary expense of the statue, therefore extreme care must be taken when handling.
   • To ensure that no mishaps occurred that could possibly break or mar the statue, technicians secured the eagle to the fork lift when moving the statue.
   • Techs only demolished the concrete tree and cut down the steel pole flush to the carpet, after the eagle statue was safely delivered to the new location.
   • All remaining debris was then cleared and disposed off the premises to a pre-arranged dumpster.
3. The deadline to complete the project from point of assessment to bid confirmation to delivery to completion was compressed into only 5 days.

• As soon as scope was received, Resicom immediately dispatched technicians to perform assessment, take the necessary photos to compile a quote and presented a bid within the same day.  Resicom project management stayed in contact with the client so a representative could allow access to facility.
• Resicom had our technician crews on stand-by to be ready for project delivery at a moment’s notice as soon as bid was approved.
• Upon work completion, before and after photos, including photos of statue at new location were immediately sent to client.  Resicom completed the entire project prior to the 5 day deadline.

Summary

Resicom understood that the execution of this project was unique because of the high level of visibility and emotional significance to the client.  This project sustained the attention of numerous decision makers within the client’s organization.   Resicom leverages our business structure to  return facilities to normal.

How do you install ICEE machines in over 100 locations as part of a national restaurant chain rollout?

Project Summary

A corporate restaurant client decided to have ICEE machines installed at their signature restaurant chain at over 100 locations as part of a national rollout.  Reserved space had to be cleared and prepared for the beverage machines prior to installation, and all project execution had to be completed overnight to minimize disruption to staff and diners.  Resicom was contacted to create a customized rollout plan so that every location targeted would have the machines installed prior to the first of the year.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Install new Corian lift countertops and column the support the new unit.
2. Remove or relocate existing soda fountain machines to make room for new units.
3. Silicone countertop and corners to adhere.
4. Install decorative column to hide syrup lines.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Project had to be executed after business hours.
   • Location visits were conducted prior to close of business to assess exact specifications and determine supplies needed unique to site.
   • Since project execution would occur after hours, technicians had to be properly prepared as they would have no access to local suppliers for additional materials.
   • As specifications varied by individual store, technicians relayed information to project managers so that customized plans could be created per location.
2. Installation at over 100 locations had to be completed within a tight deadline.
   • The project manager mapped each location, grouping restaurants by region so that multiple installations could occur each night.
3. Client needs ability to remotely review and audit work for each location.
   • Resicom leveraged available technology to provide real-time updates and detailed photographs as each location was completed.  Technicians sent detailed photos to project manager for client communication.

Summary

Resicom understood that the execution of project was unique because we were simultaneously executing projects at various locations across the country.  Since the scope of work varied by location, sound structure as well as adaptability was key.   The client relied on the receipt of  detailed, real time information from Resicom.  Our ability to offer verified information of the quality execution allowed us to assist in each restaurant’s enhancement with the new equipment.

CASE STUDY

When the very floor becomes a safety concern, how can emergency maintenance rapidly return a facility to normal?

Project Summary

A retailer discovered a high traffic area in the store were the wood floor was buckling prompting immediate on-demand maintenance.  Normalcy at the facility was disrupted because of the possible tripping hazard that now existed.  Resicom was contacted to execute repairs to the flooring.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Arrive within 1 hour of request to assess repair work, prepare scope and take photos.
2. Secure area so it is restricted from all pedestrian traffic, deterring tripping hazards.
3. Remove section of flooring to determine the source of the buckling.
4. Update client as to extent of repairs and replace damaged flooring.

Challenges & Solutions

Completing this project would require immediate action.  The facility could neither operate in a state of having a section of the store blocked off, nor could it allow a potential safety threat to staff and guests.  The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. The damaged area of the floor is a potential tripping hazard to staff and guests.

1. • Upon arrival, area to be repaired is immediately sectioned off with caution tape to deter walking over uneven flooring.
   • Damaged flooring is temporarily secured with nails as a tripping precaution.
   • The crew will systematically work in marked off sections to have the least impact on the customers’ ability to access merchandise and move through the store.

1. Manufacturer information for replacement flooring is not available from client.

1. • Small section of flooring is removed from store and brought to local flooring suppliers to source proper replacement material.
   • Technicians are dispatched to pick up replacement flooring from several local suppliers to ensure that enough quantity is on hand to complete the repairs in one evening.

1. Determining source of buckling needs to occur during normal business hours.

1. • Small section of the flooring is removed to determine cause of buckling, and a temporary piece of wood flooring is installed there is are no open holes or gaps.

1. All repair work must be completed after hours.

1. • Crew returns that evening and completes all replacement to wood flooring prior to reopen of business the next day.

Summary

We understood that the execution of project was unique because we were working during business hours.  Resicom was confident that detailed project management and organized execution would not have adverse effect on the retailer’s daily revenue.  Regardless of working conditions or environment, Resicom is able to coordinate project completion that returns facilities to normal.

CASE STUDY

Excuse me?  Resicom removes fish tanks?  ::  How can leveraging business structure assist in offbeat projects?

Project Summary

A client’s design team created a comprehensive scope of work to update their current restaurant decor.  A central focus of the rollout outlined the removal of existing salt water fish tanks at multiple location.  Relinquishing the tropical appearance was a dramatic change, and the client was concerned about the impact the renovation would have on its loyal clients.  By removing the tanks and making the necessary repairs to swiftly return the facility to normal, Resicom was able to restore the location to usual operations without disruption.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute the project includes:

1. Have live fish removed and relocated prior to crew’s arrival.
2. Dispose of the old fish tank and palapa.
3. Replace floor tile, stained concrete, damaged dry wall, replace stained chair rail, skip trowel and repaint the walls.

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Locations are distributed in multiple locations.
   • Resicom coordinated with District Managers so that project runs could be grouped together by region.
2. Live fish need to be removed and relocated prior to project start.
   • While scheduling project runs, exact start date are coordinated so that the aquarium company can transport live fish before crew arrives onsite.
3. Demolition work can not take place during normal business hours.
   • Resicom schedules after-hours/overnight crews to minimize disruption to staff and guests, while discretely removing fish tanks.
4. The damaged tile needed replacement was discontinued years ago.
   • Project management researches numerous tile vendors to match discontinued product and offer options to client.
   • Product is ordered for delivery before project begins.
5. Area surrounding fish tanks is in various states of disrepair.
   • Stained concrete is replaced.
   • Stained chair rail wood is replaced.
6. The combined required drying time for the concrete, tile, painted walls, stained chair rail is considerable.
   • An installation strategy is developed to accommodate the drying time for thin set, tile grout, skip trowel compound, chair rail stain and varnish and the wall that was painted.
   • A combination of materials with different drying times, is utilized so that technicians could complete the necessary repair tasks in under 2 nights.

Summary

With so many customers sad to see Nemo go, restoring normalcy also meant operating with a certain level of discretion.  Aside form the emotional element, sourcing materials and scheduling within the allotted time added to the complication.  However, because Resicom is able to leverage our business structure, we can successfully manage and execute projects regardless of how unusual specifications may seemingly appear.  Approaching with a team effort of trained technicians and detail-oriented project management, we were able to deliver a turn 2 night project into 1 night- along with the disclaimer “no fish were hurt in the process”.

CASE STUDY

What do you do when your brand becomes such an icon that people literally steal the  sign right off the wall?

Project Summary

A national retail client has their signature storefront letters positioned within reaching distance on the mall wall.  These letters are secured with 2’’ spacers that protrude out of the wall. Unfortunately, letters are being consistently ripped off (literally and figuratively) from the walls by teenagers damaging the storefront branding.  The client requested Resicom’s assistance in not just repairing the missing letters at various locations, but more importantly creating a solution to secure the letters against theft while preserving the aesthetics.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Find solution to secure storefront mounted letters to deter theft and vandalism.

2. Work within mall limitations and parameters since project scope is storefront inside mall.

3. Provide verification to corporate headquarters that project has been executed according to standards.

Challenges & Solutions

We understood that the execution of this emergency situation would require ingenuity and innovation.  Our office based project manager took advantage of our mock retail facility space to engage in systematic trials to secure the letters.  The results and options were then relayed to the client, and the chosen solution was provided in a project scope to the technicians performing the labor.

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. Work needs to be done after or before mall hours to minimize customer disruption.
   • The Preventative maintenance was scheduled for overnight after-hours with the mall operations manager.
   • Our technicians arrived prior to store closing to introduce themselves to staff and security, and then briefs everyone on the general project scope.
2. Improved attachment of storefront letters must be consistent with current aesthetics.
   • Technician evaluates whether damage exists on wall where letters have been pulled off, and makes necessary painting and patching repairs.
   • Technician removes existing spacers off of the posts on the back of the letters using an allen key.
   • Once the spacers have been removed, technician applies a clear silicone bead to the back of each letter.
   • Using the existing wall holes for alignment, the technician adheres letters flush to wall.
3. Work needs to be completed within 1 week of receiving project.
   • Verification photos (before and after) and detailed project compliance information is sent to client as soon as work is completed prior to deadline.

Summary

Resicom was able to draw upon each of our differentiators.  Our commitment to innovation provided the outlet to devise imaginative trial and error methods to solve this challenge.  We leveraged our communication and technology, providing the client with exacting information as requested.  Our structure supported the disciplined and experienced technicians and project management ready to tackle the challenge.  No matter the emergency, Resicom relishes the opportunity to tackle challenges with creativity to restore our client’s normalcy.

CASE STUDY

When mold creeps into a section of wall, what’s the best course of action for facility maintenance?

Project Summary

It could have been from a previous leak, or perhaps water was trapped during construction- whatever the reason, a high-end automobile dealership client needed to address a problem with mold in facility walls.  The unsightly, not to mention potentially unhealthy condition forced the facility from operating under normal circumstances.  Resicom invites our clients the opportunity to experience- or in this case- restore normalcy.

Scope

The scope of work needed to execute this project included:

1. Remove sections of wet and moldy drywall and paneling.

2. Clean the studs and spray with mold killer

3. Dispose of old drywall and paneling.

4. Install new drywall and paint

Challenges & Solutions

The constraints of the project that were overcome included:

1. The old drywall had mold, requiring special containment and precautions.
   • While handling the moldy drywall and paneling, protective gloves and masks were worn by technicians.
   • The moldy area was identified and completely removed to prohibit mold from continuing to grow.
   • Project execution was conducted after hours to protect staff and guests, not to mention the overall brand and shopping experience.
2. The drywall and paneling made an odd thickness of new drywall.
   • Technicians relied upon problem solving experience utilizing two different thicknesses of drywall, stacked one upon the other other, to obtain the necessary dimensions.
3. The drywall needed to match up to the existing paneling.
   • Precise patching was executed between the existing paneled walls and the newly installed drywall.
4. New drywall and old paneling had inconsistent, two different color bases needing paint.
   • An additional coat of paint was applied on the newly installed drywall to match the existing paneling to achieve consistency of color.

Summary

Perhaps nothing can damage a brand or facility image faster than visible mold.  Customers understand that things break, facility management budgets for necessary repairs, but no one excuses the existence of mold.  Normalcy in part means enjoying an environment with balance and order.  Resicom was relied upon to restore that level of normalcy to our client.