Which types of structural framing systems and materials are most commonly used in the US for residences? For office buildings?
What factors determine why these are the most used materials?
Why do different teams of designers and subcontractors link and share their models during the design process?
What are the advantages of linking models?
Are there any disadvantages to linking models?
Cross-communication and real-time updates help minimize downtime and confusion. Sharing information helps everyone stay on track and flag any issues that arise during the design or build process. Catching problems early can save money and time down the road.
Disadvantages include changes being constantly made without a design freeze. Changing models can lengthen project timelines, and confusion can arise among stakeholders.
How do you think design coordination was done before we started using digital models?
I’m assuming blueprints/carbon copies. Overlaying preexisting designs or designs that have already been solidified on top of/or below the work that is being done. The designers would tend to work on smaller areas of a building so that changes were easily mitigated. Communication probably didn't happen in real time, and if it did, it was probably still prolonged.
Although the old ways were much slower, sometimes it's ok to slow the process down and understand what (and why) you're really designing and building for. It’s a forced pacing.
What strategies can design teams use to find and avoid clashes prior to the start of construction?
What can be done besides sharing the models digitally?
Teams need a Design Alignment before and during the design phase. They can talk about hardpoints, constraints, and boundaries. They can talk about must-haves and nice-to-haves. In their model, they can also have these boundaries. The hope is that everyone stays within their design boundaries and only deviates when necessary.
At what point in the project development process should design coordination start?
Is it ever too early?