Process
As no two projects are the same we have developed a simple 7 Stage process plan which forms a suitable basis for most relocation, co-location and restack projects.
1. Strategic Brief
During phase 1 we analyse the requirements of the client and seek to define a clear strategy for the particular project. Typically phase 1 ends with a strategic briefing document being produced which forms the basis for the overall project.
Some of the keys points we look to cover during phase 1 include but are not limited to the following:
- Identify key project parameters – constraints and objectives
- Programme and business critical timelines
- Agree level of business unit consultation
- Identify CSR issues – environment
- Property review/options
- Change management opportunities
- Budget and capex
- IT Strategy
- Project management
- Procurement route
- Prepare master programme
2. Information Gathering
Based on the strategic brief which has been collated we then set about information gathering which would typically be the following:
- Identify interviewees for the consultation process.
- Hold interviews and meetings and carry out appropriate audit work to flesh out the brief.
- Hold meetings to feedback the brief parameters to the steering group.
- Investigate areas of particular concern
- Summarise the findings as a design brief.
- Obtain record drawings for the buildings in question (architectural, mechanical and electrical installations)
- Carry out appropriate building surveys - dimensional checks, services and infrastructure review
- Produce CAD drawings of the structure and ceilings.
- Investigate IT requirements and constraints.
- Hold preliminary discussions with the District Surveyor and the Landlord if appropriate.
3. Concept Design
We take forward all the information gathered in phase 1 and 2 to prepare initial concept ideas for the project. Typically this would include but not be limited to the following:
- Carry out building analysis
- Prepare comparison report and layouts if more than one building is being considered
- Prepare block & stack plans and test fits
- Review building services in relation to proposed layout/occupancy
- Look at IT logistics and planning
- Explore look and feel concepts using mood boards
- Consider possible furniture solutions
- Liaise with the project team to ensure the design meets the tenant’s requirements.
4. Scheme Design
Phase 3 would normally result in a sign off process agreeing key points to enable the project design process to progress into scheme design and then detailed design.
- Produce detailed space plans
- Use samples, models, site visits and other appropriate means to establish the optimum layouts
- Develop M&E services design and prepare performance specification
- Hold preliminary discussions with approved inspector
- Consult with appropriate environmental assessors (BREEAM, LEED, SKA) as appropriate for the project.
- Investigate furniture options and iterate to sign off.
- Provide cost modelling options
- Develop project programme
- Use mood boards, 3D visualisations, photographs, material samples and other appropriate means to conduct “image” sessions to closely define the desired aesthetic and to ensure that there is consensus.
- Develop the outline design and communicate this development through a series of meetings, and reworking of the scheme until satisfactory sign-off.
5. Detailed Design
Phase 4 would normally result in a sign off process to enable the project to progress into the detailed design stage. Key activities during phase 5 include the following:
- Produced detailed construction issue drawings
- Finalise M&E services design
- Submit Building Regulation Application and negotiate successful award
- Produce a block plan strategy for phasing as appropriate (if necessary).
- Provide cost input.
- Maintain budgets and advise on value engineering as required.
- Assist the Project Team in staff consultation, discussions and other forums.
- Prepare plans for approvals – both statutory and landlord’s.
- Assist the tenant in staff PR as required.
- Provide design specifications and services in relation to CDM
6. Implementation
We undertake to supply the following construction services:
- Communicate with the client representatives.
- Appoint sub-contractors.
- Furniture procurement.
- Take responsibility for assessing quality on the project.
- Review project timescale and manage process.
- Hold regular, informative meetings so that the client is fully aware of progress and issues.
- Review the Health and Safety File in conjunction with the CDMC
- Scrutinise all required permits for the execution of the works.
- Ensure production of as-built drawings and manuals.
- Ensure the Health and Safety File is delivered to the client
7. Move/Support
We undertake to supply some or all of the following management services during Phase 7:
- Organise removals if required
- Provide detailed relocation plans and supervise such relocations as required.
- Ensure that IT support is on-hand to re-commission IT equipment when finally located.
- Hand over project to Warranty Support Manager who will respond to any issues during the 12 month defects liability period.