The Pros of Prototypes in Challenging Building Environments

Inflation and interest rates slowed the market, however, there are still ways to build without breaking the bank. Reusing successful designs is one solution that can save time and money, but don’t think that means you can’t have a building with its unique look and personality. We sat down with Jeff Mock, Vice President of Clancy & Theys, to talk about how to make use of design standardization and prototypes.

Containing Costs

Vice President -Clancy & Theys - Senior Living Specialist -Servant Leader

Cost savings from a prototype can start with scheduling. Mock said, “In the first few renditions, you find some issues that you have to address. By the second or third iteration, you have worked out the bugs and increased efficiencies from a scheduling perspective.” Mark Warrick, Vice President of Pi Architects stated, “Timewise it’s more efficient because you don’t have to reinvent the wheel.” This also enables subcontractors to develop pricing that is more precise and competitive. As a result, there are fewer surprises and conflicts. Pi Architects believes strongly in working closely with contractors for a cost-effective design.

Greater Control

Owners/operators/builders need to feel a sense of control over their projects, and a prototype helps with this. Because this enables the team to work together to iron out issues or glitches, there are fewer surprises and great consistency in each subsequent project. At the same time, prototypes enable builders/owners/operators to have input and give feedback in real-time, as well as request changes and tweak specifications early in the project when these are less costly to implement.

Unique Designs Fine Tuned

It is important to stress that a prototype doesn’t mean the design is not unique. “We can tweak designs and figure out efficiencies in costs and processes,” Mock said. This is important because it adds to costs and disrupts schedules when a contractor comes in late in the game and makes several changes. “When the entire team works together from the start, it helps the project stay on budget and schedule and keeps changes from derailing the project or adding to costs,” said Mock, adding, “It’s hard to get money out of a project later in the process, so it is important to get costs under control early on.”

 Of course, nothing – including prototypes – offers a definitive solution to all the challenges that plague all areas of the industry. Mock said, “We are trying to get more people interested in the construction field, but there are no short-term solutions. At the same time, we are facing more material-related challenges than labor challenges right now. For instance, certain switch gear panels need 70-80 weeks of lead time.” Sometimes, Mock noted, unexpected – and ones that are difficult or impossible to anticipate – arise. “There are some things you just can’t control,” he said. However, using a prototype with an established team can enhance the ability to communicate about and respond quickly to issues and pivot or change direction when necessary. Mock concluded, “Even when issues arise that you can’t anticipate and are out of your control, it is important to have a team that works closely together.”