Job Book 9th Edition - Book - Page 25
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Stage 0 > Strategic Definition
0.1
Core Objectives
Stage 0 is the stage when requirements are clarified and a
strategy for action prepared. It is important at this stage to raise
fundamental questions regarding the project; for example,
whether there is a need for a new building, or whether adaptation
and reorganisation of the client’s existing premises might not
satisfy existing needs. Key issues such as funding, budget, project
duration and building lifespan should be addressed.
The use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) should be
determined at the outset of the project or as soon as possible to
attain the greatest benefit from it.
This stage may or may not involve other consultants; with larger
or more experienced clients the process of appraisal may be
handled by the client body itself. The stage should culminate in
the Strategic Brief, which will form the basis of the Initial Project
Brief to be delivered in Stage 1.
Stage 0 includes such studies as may be relevant to determine
what services will be necessary and whether it is feasible to
achieve the project aims within the defined constraints. Such
studies may be undertaken initially by the client organisation
with in-house expertise or by a project manager or architect
before the appointment of other consultants. Professional
advisers may be commissioned solely for Stage 0, particularly in
the case of major projects where demonstrable impartiality and
objectivity are required by a client body.
Stage 0 relates to the final stage, Stage 7, as Feedback from the
completed project can be used to inform refurbishment or
alteration of the building or other future projects of a similar
nature. Stage 7 covers the in-use management of the building
throughout its life until its eventual demolition. A BIM model can
be used to assist in this and architects should seek opportunities
to perform this service for their clients. Traditionally, once
a building has been completed the architect has had little
involvement in managing it as an asset or a facility, but this
could change, with consequent benefits to the profession and
the industry. As buildings become ‘smarter’ they also require
greater technical understanding to run them efficiently and
information technology can play a key part in this.
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