How CMCI Leads the Way in Corporate Space Optimization
The way companies use their office space is constantly evolving. One of the most strategic tools in space optimization is the “restack”—a term that may not be widely known outside of facilities and operations circles, but one that plays a critical role in how businesses adapt to change. At the forefront of this specialized service is CMCI, a Houston-based move consulting firm with decades of experience and a reputation for precision, efficiency and client satisfaction.
So, what exactly is a restack?
“A restack is a ‘shuffling’ of a company’s personnel within their current building,” explained Renee McNiel, owner of CMCI. “Most often, engineering-type firms do restacks to realign teams for projects.” Unlike a full-scale relocation, a restack involves reconfiguring existing office space to better align with organizational needs—whether that’s to support a new project, accommodate growth or adapt to a hybrid work model.
While the concept of restacking isn’t new, its relevance has only grown in the post-pandemic era. As companies reassess their real estate footprints and embrace more flexible work arrangements, the need to make better use of existing space has become paramount. Interestingly, McNiel noted that the core execution of restacks hasn’t changed much since the pandemic. “It’s still the same,” she says. “Many companies now share spaces departmentally due to hybrid work, but the fundamentals of a restack remain consistent.”
One of the most common drivers for a restack is the need to bring teams together for collaborative work. “Large architectural or engineering teams often need to be co-located to support project work,” McNiel explained. But restacks aren’t limited to any one industry. As businesses grow or contract, restacking becomes a practical solution to realign space with operational needs.
Planning a restack, however, is no small feat. It requires coordination across multiple departments. Facilities, IT and departmental representatives all play crucial roles. Without expert guidance, the process can quickly become chaotic. “The larger the restack, the more complicated,” McNiel warned. “It’s often like a Rubik’s Cube. You have to empty a space in order to fill it, and if the order isn’t right, you end up with a backlog in the hallways that makes it difficult to conduct the move.” It also causes employee frustration and reduced productivity, which business leaders absolutely want to avoid.
This is where CMCI’s expertise truly shines. With hundreds of restacks under its belt, the team has developed a methodical approach that minimizes disruption and maximizes efficiency. “Once you understand that the order of the move matters, it’s not as much of a challenge,” McNiel said. CMCI ensures minimal disruption to the business by conducting moves after hours or when employees are not present, and by preparing clients thoroughly for “Day One” activity. That means ensuring that when employees return to their work environment, everything is in place and ready to go. This also means employees get right to work.
Technology also plays a supporting role in CMCI’s process. While many companies now use platforms like Microsoft Teams for communication, CMCI leverages its dashboard to keep clients informed throughout the move. “Our dashboard keeps the client informed about activity on their move,” McNiel noted, highlighting the importance of transparency and communication.
What truly sets CMCI apart, however, is not just their tools, but its extensive involvement in restacks over literally 20 years as well as McNiel’s experience prior bringing that total to 36 years. “Experience and understanding that order needs to be established or you will spend a tremendous amount of time digging your company out of a complete mess,” McNiel emphasized. This depth of knowledge allows CMCI to anticipate challenges before they arise and to execute restacks with a level of precision that few can match.
Success, for CMCI, is measured by three simple but powerful metrics: on time, on budget and no downtime. These benchmarks reflect the company’s commitment to excellence and its understanding of what matters most to clients.
For companies considering their first restack, McNiel offered this advice: “Hire an expert—a moving consultant who can both guide you in ensuring you are ready for Day One, and plan the move such that it makes sense for deinstall/reinstall and move—keeping hallways clear and everyone and everything safe during the move.”
As the workplace continues to evolve, restacking will remain a vital strategy for companies looking to stay agile and efficient. With CMCI leading the charge, businesses can rest assured that their restack will be handled with the utmost care, expertise and professionalism.
If you found this post of interest, be sure to read “What is a Restack, and Do I Need One?” on our blog. To learn more about CMCI’s restacking services, contact us.
