The Access Group Case Study – Office Opening Project Management

Faced with the complex launch of a flagship office under tight deadlines, The Access Group partnered with Understanding Solutions to provide on-site project leadership. The result: a seamless office opening, cost efficiency, and a long-term team member through USol’s project-to-perm model, delivering real ownership and lasting value.

The Challenge the Client Faced

 The Access Group was preparing to open a new flagship office at Bishopsgate – a high-profile site that needed to be operational from day one. The project required coordinating IT infrastructure, facilities, contractors, and staff readiness, all against a tight deadline. Any delay or misstep risked not just financial loss, but reputational damage at a pivotal moment for the business.

At the same time, Access Group’s internal teams were already stretched thin managing day-to-day operations and a portfolio of other office-related projects. They needed someone who could take full ownership on the ground, provide structure and oversight, and ensure that every moving piece came together seamlessly.

Understanding Solutions' Approach

Understanding Solutions deployed a consultant with extensive project management experience, but more importantly, the ability to become the on-site anchor at Bishopsgate. Embedded daily at the office, they managed everything from planning and vendor coordination to hands-on execution, ensuring every element was in place for a successful opening.

Understanding Solutions’ consultant quickly became the go-to person on-site – the one individual who understood the entire project end-to-end. They weren’t just tracking milestones; they were making decisions in real time, resolving blockers, and giving Access Group leaders complete confidence that the office would open on schedule.

Once Bishopsgate went live, the role naturally transitioned into ongoing support, ensuring smooth operations and addressing issues before they could escalate. The impact of this contribution was so significant that The Access Group decided to retain the consultant permanently – a unique, organic version of our “project-to-perm” model, where a temporary engagement evolved into long-term value for the client.

The Outcome

The Bishopsgate office was delivered successfully on time and ready for business from day one – with no major disruptions or overspend. The Access Group benefitted not only from the flawless execution of a critical project, but also from the embedded knowledge and continuity provided by our consultant.

 By the end of the engagement, Access Group had:

• A flagship office opened smoothly under tight deadlines.

• A trusted on-site lead who became the single source of truth for the project

• Cost efficiency through proactive planning and resource coordination.

• A permanent, long-term addition to their team via USol’s unique project-to-perm model.

This showcasing how Understanding Solutions goes beyond simply providing project resource. We deliver ownership, accountability, and measurable outcomes, ensuring our clients save time, avoid risk, and gain lasting value from every engagement.