Setting up a physical location

What do I need to know for the first time?

[iJeep]

I am getting ready to open our first physical location. With this step I will also be taking on phone support for the first time with an 800 number.

What I don't know, is what all I need. When going from a HO to a SO what all is needed? So far I have:

-Desks and chairs
-Extra computers
-PBX phone system (phones, server, blah)
-Displays for merch
-Networking equip (switches, routers, cables, etc)
-Credit card terminal and new merchant account for in store sales
-Counter
-Cash register
-Security system with monitoring
-DSL/Cable modem
-Phone service

Really, I am looking for basic functionality to start and then move in to fine details after things are running smooth.

[jimbeetle]

Customers? :)

Looks like you have all the big stuff covered except maybe a printer, copier and fax.

It's the little things that will drive you crazy: stationary, pencils, pens, paperclips, staples, all those office supplies plus a place to store them. Refrigerator, coffee maker and coffee, tea, etc. Cleaning supplies, toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels, blah, blah.

A couple of these might be fine details, one or two are must haves.

[lZakl]

You forgot to mention Cable T.V. and Playstaion.

All jokes aside, I see one thing that is a MUST HAVE. File cabinets. And room for more as the business grows. I save EVERYTHING up to 10 years old. Has saved us some butt-aches in the past too.

-- Zak

[meg8]

Lightbulbs, nothing puts customers off like darkness. And a big smile on your face, then just throw open the doors and learn as you go along. If you are enthusiastic and friendly people will be enthusiastic back and will forgive you teething problems. Or they do in my experience anyway.

[iJeep]

Thanks guys.

It looks like my biggest obstacle so far is trying to come up with a software solution(s) that combines the web sales, POS, and purchasing. So far it looks like it is going to be a custom made thing.