Like many companies across the U.S., we suspended our on-site office operations in response to guidance from the CDC and directives from state and local officials to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
We are relieved that our associates remained safe and productive while working remotely. Through virtual site visits, video conferencing and collaboration, our remote teams kept mission-critical projects on schedule and within budget while maintaining an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality and innovative solutions. Our associates also demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of this unprecedented challenge — quickly overcoming obstacles, identifying more efficient approaches to various tasks, and sharing and implementing lessons learned each step of the way. Equally as remarkable: we were able to recruit, hire and on-board three new associates and finalize our 2020 class of summer interns and emerging professionals, who will join us in June.
Our plan to resume in-office operations entails a phased approach to ensure the safety, health and well-being of our clients, our associates, and the communities we serve. On May 11, employees will begin their voluntary return to our Dallas and Leawood offices. We hope to have all employees back in the office as soon as Phase 3 allows.
To maintain safety, several precautions have been implemented. We have assessed all workstations, conference rooms, circulation routes and seating assignments to ensure optimal distance is maintained. Hand sanitizer stations are available at all points of entry and at employee desks. Masks will be distributed and worn when moving through the office. Meetings will be conducted via video conferencing whenever feasible. Guest entry will be limited. And all office areas, including personal workstations, will be sanitized daily.
We know this unprecedented and uncertain situation has caused hardship for many of our clients, their associates and their families. Please know that we remain committed to you and your organization’s success and well-being — if we can help in any way, please let us know. We are grateful for your continued trust and remain hopeful that through our collaborative, collective, and community-driven efforts, we will overcome these current challenges.
All my best,
Mitch Hoefer, AIA, NCARB
Founding Partner & CEO