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Corporate location can appear to be a daunting challenge for either the novice or experienced analyst. But, it is far more efficient if a logical, systematic procedure is followed. When such an approach is adopted, the chances of finding a location that maximizes the firm’s ability to realize critical objectives markedly increase.

To help you better grasp the essential steps in location decisionmaking, we have divided the process into four phases. Each phase is outlined below:

	Phase One: The Building Blocks Laying the study's foundation, including definition of basic requirements and criteria.
	Phase Two: Screening Creating a shortlist of areas and selecting 3 for due diligence. Within geographic search region initially apply basic criteria By integrating more restrictive criteria eventually will narrow the field to a longlist of maybe 10 areas Take a closer look at each longlisted area (e.g. labor market competitors) Rank / score the longlist contenders Select finalists (shortlisted) locations
	Phase Three: Evaluation/Selection Assessing finalist areas and choosing the best location. Field based due diligence evaluation performed including interviews with comparable employers and other pertinent entities. Inspection of site/building potentials undertaken Infrastructure (e.g utilities) assessment conducted Labor market viability determined, both near term and long range Preliminary incentives package obtained Taxes / regulations evaluated Comparison of the finalist locations made based on: Company's most internal needs Areas most prominent assets/liabilities Major factors assessed include Business operating costs (multi-year) Labor market Demand / supply Quality / stability Cost Unionization Transportation Costs Services Utilities (cost, capacity, reliability) Electric power Telecommunications Natural Gas Water / Sewer Taxation Practices Rates Incentives The package savings Disaster risk Quality-of-life / cost-of-living Best location chosen Leading alternate location chosen Site/building shortlist identified in these locations
	Phase Four: Site Selection Due diligence to choose the best property with the following task components: Project team Project management plan Budget forecast  Field visits/property reviews Shortlist properties  Developer/owner RFPs Incentives negotiation Additions Local counsel retained Finalist properties Due diligence reviews Final negotiations Final occupancy plan Site building acquisition Decision announcement

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