Time is a compelling force, and it’s easy to let time dictate how we make decisions. Quick decisions can be awfully appealing in a short-attention-span world, but we like to think a little differently here at McKinstry.

There’s real value in longevity, and we’ve found that thoroughly planning a long-term project—which means beginning with the end in mind—is reliably the most fiscally prudent and sustainable solution for our clients. When we say we’re here for the life of your building, we mean it. Where this approach truly shines is when McKinstry has the privilege of partnering with a client who shares these values.

Scott Downing, the Superintendent of Schools for the Warsaw R-IX School District in Warsaw, Mo., is a firm believer in the power of long-term thinking.

“We definitely look at total cost of ownership (TCO) and how decisions we make now play out over the next five to 10 years,” Downing said. “These decisions are important especially in the educational environment when you are talking about facilities and buildings that aren’t getting any younger.

“You have to keep up with escalating energy costs and educational expectations,” he added. “Holistic information becomes very important but only by looking at the impact of a lot of little pieces.”

To achieve that vision, Warsaw R-IX School District teamed up with McKinstry to develop and execute a long-term strategic plan for their district. We engaged stakeholders at every level to understand the district’s priorities and develop actions and timelines. Next, those plans and recommendations were put into motion.

“To date, McKinstry has addressed plumbing and piping deficiencies, installed energy-efficient lighting and occupancy sensors, renovated restrooms fixtures and addressed ADA compliance issues in Warsaw,” said McKinstry Business Development Manager Joel Gundelfinger. “Currently, the facility committee is addressing the timing and planning to fund and implement deeper retrofits and tackle a large deferred maintenance issue.”

By applying a forward-thinking approach, Warsaw R-IX School District is now able to evaluate the true cost of facility improvements and choose solutions offering the greatest value for the life of their buildings. It’s a model that works for Warsaw R-IX School District and also helps many of our other clients save time and money over the long haul.