Integrated design team management within the context of environmental systems theory
The full potential of energy efficiency, occupancy satisfaction, cost effectiveness, and sustainability for any building cannot be achieved without using an integrated design team approach. The expertise needed at each step crosses conventional design discipline boundaries. This process is synergistic. Every component is evaluated for its effects on the whole; how each will effect the building's functioning, operations, energy performance, indoor health, local ecology, aesthetic response, etc. Daylighting for example cannot be effective to its full potential without the integrative design efforts of the architect, mechanical and electrical engineers, interior designer, and landscape architect. The benefits to the integrated design process far out weigh the costs, but the effort and commitment needed to overcome the conventional process is considerable. Business as usual is like a relay race where each firm waits for the baton to be passed to them. They do their part within the difficulties and limitations created by the others before them, then pass it on to the next firm. Other obstacles include competition based on lowest fees leading to cook book solutions, designing to only meet code, reverse incentives, etc. The advantage to the integrated design team process is that each team member is assisted by the others. Time isn't wasted fixing other firms mistakes. Creativity is allowed and encouraged. The owner benefits from an all around better building carefully tailored to their needs. Operating and maintenance costs are lower. Occupants benefit from increased productivity and fewer sick days from a healthier indoor environment. The community gets a building that uses less resources and is therefore more sustainable.
- Research Organization:
- AIM Associates, Petaluma, CA (US)
- OSTI ID:
- 20006388
- Report Number(s):
- CONF-980815--
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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