Innovation and Growth: A Call to Action for Southwest Missouri Business Leaders (Sponsor Letter)

John McNabb, Partner & Director of Business Operations Sapp Design Architects

[Publisher's note: Below is a corrected version of the article from what appeared in the Nov. 18 edition.]

Dear readers and fellow business leaders,

As our region continues to evolve and grow, I've observed a consistent truth: the decisions that shape our community's future are made by those who show up. As an architect and planner who has witnessed countless community transformations, I want to share some insights that could help guide your business planning in the coming years.

I want to emphasize the importance of community engagement. As business leaders, we have a unique opportunity – and I would argue, responsibility – to help shape our region's future. When community planning sessions occur, attendance often falls short of what it could be. Yet these meetings are where crucial decisions about our community's direction are made. The voices in the room are the ones that guide the vision.

I encourage you to become active participants in community planning initiatives. Whether it's attending Springfield Forward sessions or participating in other local development discussions, your perspective as a business leader is invaluable. These forums aren't just about sharing opinions – they're about actively participating in the decisions that will shape our region's growth trajectory.

It naturally follows that engaged community leaders build and sustain business that thrive in the environment that they help to create. Looking ahead to 2025, we're seeing a significant uptick in strategic facility planning across various business sectors. This suggests a growing recognition of the need for thoughtful, intentional development in our region. Now is the time to ensure your business is part of this forward momentum.

First, let me address a reality we all face: construction and renovation costs never truly decrease. While we might see occasional plateaus, the overall trajectory is consistently upward. Even if you're waiting for interest rates to become more favorable, the increase in construction costs is likely to outpace any savings you might realize from lower rates. This means that if you're considering facility improvements or expansion, acting sooner rather than later is almost always the financially prudent choice.

However, before embarking on any major facility projects, I strongly encourage you to develop a comprehensive master plan that aligns with your strategic business goals. While many businesses have clear financial and personnel targets for the next three to five years, facility planning often takes a back seat. A well-crafted master plan helps ensure that your physical infrastructure supports your long-term vision while avoiding costly course corrections down the road.

Sustainable growth isn't just about individual success – it's about creating a thriving ecosystem where all businesses can flourish. By taking a proactive approach to both your business planning and community engagement, you can help ensure that Southwest Missouri continues to develop in ways that benefit us all.

Sincerely,
John McNabb, Partner & Director of Business Operations
Sapp Design Architects