How do you think design coordination was done before we started using digital models? 

I think that design coordination was done through the exchange of physical plans. The advantage of digital models in design coordination is that each designer can work on their own model while they check for conflicts, rather than waiting to meet with the other designer. This informs the designer of structural limitations and grants them the freedom to try different shapes and forms to develop their ideas.

What strategies can design teams use to find and avoid clashes prior to the start of construction? 

Besides sharing models digitally, designers should maintain frequent contact with their colleagues. Teams can easily spot and resolve clashes can be easily spotted if all members are updated on the project. Communication and collaboration are key strategies for designers working together on a project.

At what point in the project development process should design coordination start? 

Design coordination should always be a consideration during the project development process. Individuals should have the freedom to explore their own ideas, but ultimately their ideas will be incorporated into the bigger picture of structural and architectural elements. Therefore, designers should approach the development process as a collaborative effort to minimize the risk of conflicting ideas.