How do you think design coordination was done before we started using digital models?
What advantages does doing this coordination digitally have over previous methods?
I believe design coordination during the early times of engineering revolved around physical models, and hand-drawn blueprints. Collaboration amongst engineers, architects, and designers primarily relied on traditional drafting techniques and other elements, such as:
Blueprints and drawings:
- Designers created detailed hand-drawn blueprints and technical drawings to effectively communicate specifications and dimensions of a project.
Physical models:
- Scale models were also created by hand and were used to represent three-dimensional aspects of a design in order to visualize a project in a tangible manner.
- Physical models are necessary to facilitating discussions revolving around spatial relationships, proportions, as well as the aesthetics of a building.
Hands-on, real-time problem-solving:
- Design issues and conflicts were presumably addressed through hands-on problem-solving across face-to-face meetings, which was incredibly time consuming.
Although the methods of design coordination have significantly evolved over time as our dependency on digital models has grown, the pre-digital times has set the bar high in terms of expectations on craftmanship and meticulousness. Arguably, the transition to digital models has certainly streamlined the construction process and will continue increasing efficiency as technology becomes further refined.
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?
Design teams may implement several strategies to find and avoid clashes prior to the start of construction, besides sharing models digitally, such as:
Early collaboration workshops:
- Early on coordination during the design phase amongst architects, engineers, and other stakeholders encourages strong communication and serves as a great tool to early identification of potential clashes down the road.
Risk assessment and contingency planning:
- The performance of a comprehensive risk assessment may assist in identifying areas prone to clashes, such as mechanical and electrical rooms. To mitigate potential clashes, it is helpful to employ contingency plans for potential clashes, including alternative design solutions.
The combination of such strategies will help design teams create a robust clash detection and resolution process that does not depend on digital models, and enhances collaboration, reduces risks, and contributes towards a successful project completion.
At what point in the project development process should design coordination start?
Is it ever too early?
Design coordination should commence during the conceptual design phase, ensuring early collaboration to align project goals, identify clashes, and establish a solid foundation for subsequent detailed design phases.
By initiating design coordination early in the project development process, teams can establish a collaborative foundation, foster interdisciplinary communication, and proactively address potential clashes. This early involvement contributes to a smoother project delivery, reduces the likelihood of rework, and enhances overall project efficiency and success — and no, it is never too early.