On a regular basis, we highlight content posted on other blogs that we feel would benefit our readers. This week's blog highlights include:
3 Waves Approach to Improved Construction Productivity
Architect Patrick Mays makes a good case for what he calls his "Process Over Product" approach to improve construction productivity. Writing at the AECCafé blog, building on the benefits of lean construction, Mays sees the process evolving in three waves:
- Design for Fabrication - do away with the current process of creating different drawings/BIM models for the same item for different trades
- Design for Delivery - this process focuses on the increased use of off-site prefabrication and the logistics planning necessary for successful execution
- Design for Manufacturing and Assembly - the final wave is analysis and design intended to optimize the factory processes that can further improve the fabrication, shipping and delivery steps
Mays says the approach starts with the architect working more closely with manufacturers, fabricators and subcontractors early on projects; check out the full post here to learn more.
Trump Triumph is Awesome for Green Building
Stuart Kaplow, an attorney specializing in environmental law and author of the Green Building Law Update blog, opines that Trump will be good for green building. The thrust of this view is that arresting existing environmental and energy policies that drive up growth and lower taxes will encourage increased voluntary green building activity. Kaplow points to multiple failures of efforts to pass mandatory green building codes and other green building initiatives. Read the full post here.
Analyzing Nontraditional HVAC Systems
Concern about risks and a bias towards working with systems that have worked in the past tends to result in construction specifyers gravitating towards traditional systems they have experience with. However, construction specifyers, design-builders and contractors may want to take some time to explore nontraditional methods that may benefit the project. The Consulting - Specifying Engineer website this past week addresses HVAC systems, including how to:
- Analyze thermal comfort criteria for improved user experience
- Consider partial-cooling systems
- Maximize value through zone cooling and healing
Tips for Home Builders
At the 3D Construction Modeling blog, this week's post is about MEP installation, with tips on materials and installation. This is part 44 of a series of blog posts that uses 3D drawings to illustrate construction means and methods. The posts are derived from a book by the website owners called How a House is Built: With 3D Construction Models. Click here to view the post.
