You made a strong case for how layout ties directly into a company's broader strategy, especially in terms of efficiency and long-term positioning. I really liked your point about matching layout to the nature of the product, small and light items versus heavy products, because it shows how practical considerations shape decisions just as much as strategy does. The example you gave of steel manufacturing near a coastline or railway line also highlights how layout is not just about the inside of a facility but also about its relationship to the larger supply chain.

Another piece worth adding is how layout choices influence communication and collaboration. A poorly designed office or plant floor can unintentionally create silos, making it harder for teams to coordinate. On the other hand, when the layout encourages interaction, whether between departments in an office or between stations on a production line it supports better problem solving and faster responses to issues. In that sense, layout affects not just costs and efficiency but also the culture and teamwork within a business.

Your post shows well how layout is a strategic decision that goes far beyond where to put equipment. I think when companies take it seriously, they are setting themselves up for resilience in the face of change.