PROJECT MANAGEMENT APPROACH
Regardless of its type, size and complexity, every building project follows a similar sequence of research, problem solving and execution. We manage projects by structuring our services within the following general phases:
Phase One – Pre-Design:
Study and evaluation of project requirements
Documentation of existing conditions
Research of code compliance and other requirements
Phase Two – Schematic Design:
Creation and evaluation of alternative design concepts
Preparation of concept floor plans, exterior elevations and other documents as needed to define the concepts
Preliminary land use review with jurisdiction, if required
Phase Three – Design Development:
Development of the selected design to define all project variables, building systems and building materials
Final land use review with jurisdiction, if required
Phase Four – Documentation:
Preparation of permit and construction documents
Phase Five – Permitting:
Management of permitting process
Phase Six – Construction
Administration or monitoring of construction
Phase Seven – Post-Construction Assistance with warranty issues if required
Assistance with post-occupancy assessments
The extent of service provided in each of these phases is carefully tailored to the project specific needs identified by the client; where appropriate, this structure can be modified or condensed to suit projects of limited scope or unique requirements. For most projects, services will include structural engineering (design and calculations), and general definition of mechanical and electrical systems.
Because Mr. Straus has a substantial background working cooperatively with contractors in both traditional and design-build projects, he strongly recommends establishing a working relationship with one or more contractors at the earliest possible point in every project. In addition to facilitating development of much more accurate and meaningful cost estimates earlier in the project schedule, this strategy also transforms the relationships between owner, architect and contractor from adversarial to cooperative and productive. Furthermore, the contractor and his subcontractors are able to provide review, feedback and creative input to the design process to help keep the project on track for both budget and schedule.
A proposal is prepared for each project that defines the specific services to be provided in each of the above general phases, the intended scope of project, the basis of compensation and payments, scheduling, and standard terms and conditions. When signed, the proposal becomes the executed services agreement. For limited scope consultations, a letter of understanding is signed at the start of services. Payment for services is made in installments: an initial payment is made upon authorization to proceed; thereafter, payments are made monthly as services are accrued, or upon completion of a defined portion of the services, as appropriate for each project.
Because of the extensive decision making process that is required for most projects, close and well defined communications are established at the outset and maintained through completion.