Executing roll-out programs is an area of expertise for RTM Engineering Consultants. A roll-out program’s scope can range from renovating older properties to opening a series of ground-up new locations.
RTM has managed extensive roll-outs for companies in different market sectors, including restaurants, coffee shops, grocery stores, pharmacies, and retail stores.
For some roll-outs, RTM’s team engineers a prototype that forms the fundamental design for all properties. For other roll-outs, RTM works to realize the vision of an existing prototype. Each roll-out program contains a distinct set of requirements and timelines that the team must follow closely, while also adapting to frequent changes.
“It’s a misconception that all roll-outs are the same,” said Aaron Burch, Senior Project Manager at RTM. “It would be nice if they were all just cut and paste, but each project is unique and requires a lot of due diligence and attention to detail. But we also get a heavy rush of projects at once, so managing volume is an ongoing challenge.”
RTM creates a detailed process to track each step of a roll-out, from initial planning meetings and site visits, to prototype tweaks and project completion. This streamlined approach is crucial to keeping a roll-out on budget and on schedule.
A single error in one step of the process can cause costly and time-consuming delays in permitting and construction. And if one property is held up, it can cause a domino effect, postponing many other deadlines.
“After working on hundreds of roll-outs, our team is very aware of the factors that affect a project,” said Salvador Lingan, Senior Mechanical Engineer at RTM. “We’ve learned what questions we need to ask. We know we need to pay attention to things like a building’s orientation, shape, and size. And we know it’s important to find the location of lighting, HVAC, and utilities. Because any irregularities may require changes to the prototype or other adjustments.”
The RTM team must also maintain excellent communication with clients to keep roll-outs operating smoothly and efficiently.
“We’ll often have questions or feedback on a prototype,” said Lingan. “We never assume anything before moving forward. We go back to the building engineer and ask for clarification or suggest changes, so we have an open dialogue and make sure we’re all on the same page.”
Burch added that clients are impressed by the RTM team’s responsiveness.
“Our mantra is: react immediately to questions if possible,” he said. “We know how important it is to keep the communication flowing, so we always try to answer questions quickly. It helps us stay on top of everything, and our clients value how attentive we are to their needs.”
Learn more about RTM’s expertise in diverse markets.