So you're thinking about relocating ... the top 10 reasons for moving on.

If you're thinking about relocating your company, you're not alone.

About 50% of the nation's business managers are evaluating building or leasing facilities in new locations.

The decisions involved in a move can be difficult, so here are 10 basic issues you should examine

1. Need

Do you really need to relocate? From a business standpoint, have you thoroughly explored ways to improve operations or retool in your present location? Have you met with your local political and economic development officials and fully explored everything that might be done to improve your present situation?

2. Labor

Is the labor pool large enough, qualified and growing in your present location? How does the labor pool look in potential new locations? To what extent is labor unionized? Does a good work ethic exist? Is the labor force productive? What are the opportunities for spouses' employment?

3. Government

Is local government capably managed in communities under consideration? Many taxes are local (real estate, school): Does local government have a track record that supports a commitment to stable tax rates? And do local utlities have a reputation for planning ahead and implementing cost-cutting conservation measures, rather than billing for catch-up projects?

4. Transportation

For manufacturing and distribution operations, what is the best strategic location for interstate highway and rail access to both suppliers and customers? For corporate headquarters, is there access to adequate airline service?

5. Services

Are the necessary financial, accounting and legal services available? What about computer and telecommunications assistance? And are research and product testing facilities available? Even if your headquarters is in a first-tier city, can back room operations be moved to less expensive quarters if these services are readily available?

6. Site

On a site-by-site basis, how do purchase, construction and occupancy costs compare? In terms of your long-term needs, is the less expensive site necessarily the cheapest one?

7. Education

What vocational, industrial training and higher education opportunities are available? Are there opportunities for continuing adult education?

8. Community

Will the community's quality of life attract the type of employees you need? Will it help retain valued employees and managers and reduce turnover? Have you picked potential locations where housing and other expenses are affordable for your employees?

9. Morale

Will a new facility at a new location enhance employee morale and productivity? Will it help develop an improved corporate culture? If downsizing is an objective, will a move be perceived as "right sizing" rather than as a means of cutting staff?.

10. Culture

What cultural and recreational opportunities are available? Is the mix of activities right for all employees-married, married with children and single?

How to begin

Relocating can offer tax reductions up to 60%. It can provide access to a highly productive labor force. And with government incentives such as fast-track permitting and employee training assistance, it can be accomplished quickly and at minimum cost.

If you are convinced that relocation is for you, the best way to get started is to contact the state and regional economic development offices in the area of interest. These government-funded offices have sophisticated capabilities for providing a macroeconomic outlook tailored to your specific needs.

A. J. Christopher Wood is executive director of the Metropolitan Economic Development Council of Richmond, Va.