The ability to crunch subjective criteria into data-backed metrics made F5 Networks’ recent relocation decision easier.

Kinzer Partners founder Craig Kinzer and F5 Networks Senior Lease Transaction Manager Emily Lundstedt explained the process at Bisnow’s Building Cities of the Future: Seattle event Tuesday at the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle.

With four buildings in the running, the relocation team eventually selected the building, formerly known as The Mark, on Fifth and Columbia. The company expects to move in 2019. The building is now named the F5 Tower.

The 1,375 employees of F5 were polled to determine what was most important to them, while taking into consideration the company’s need for space to expand, hold events and lodge visiting team members, as well as cost — though that was not the top priority.

Once all feedback was collected, a qualitative analysis was created. Access to transportation was the company’s highest priority. Space to expand, access to hospitality resources, event space and cost of each building were assessed and ranked. 

“The Mark has amazing transportation, and on-site hotel and event space,” Lundstedt said. “The building size and floor plates were a perfect fit for F5, plus it is in a good neighborhood and was an incredible financial deal.”

The hunt for suitable office space has changed, Kinzer said.

"A lot can be measured, and we now pitch to the entire company, rather than just the C-suite," he said. “We can now look at areas that can help you increase productivity and decrease absenteeism."