At Sword we have converted our classroom learning curriculum to virtual learning. Please contact us for list of courses. We also offer credits for AGC CM-Lean credential Renewal.
SOLUTIONS FOR YOU
WHY EMBARK ON A LEAN JOURNEY?
Save Time, Money and Resources.
Our approach has been to prioritize early collaboration with project team members and to co-develop shared project objectives, goals and successes with the use of Lean principles and BIM technology.
We have implemented Quality Assurance strategies that uses the BIM model in the field to inform the work-planning efforts, identify field constraints and ultimately validate the installation of the building systems and meet the owner’s design intent for the aesthetics and functions of the building and create and accurate definition of the BIM model data (conforming to ISO 19650) for use in the operations, maintenance and use of the building.
Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Fire Protection (MEPF) systems on modern projects account for about 40% to 60% of total construction costs (Khanzode, 2010). In complex projects like hospitals, these systems have to be well designed and coordinated to avoid conflicts. In remodel projects these same systems account for much of the cost of the project and also budget overruns. It is more challenging to define accurately the scope or complexity of these systems as there are no as-built documentation of the systems. Thus, to improve workflow by the construction team we have developed solutions combining BIM technology and lean process that have improved not only the workflow of MEPF trades but most other trades to reduce rework in the field and minimize change orders related to field conflicts. One of the reasons for failing to complete 100% of the plan for the week is the ability to foresee and remove constraints before they effect work.
Building Information Modeling
Beyond the traditional 3D coordination of major components, 4D schedule integration and 5D model-based estimating, we extend the use of BIM to:
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Prefabrication/preassembly/modularization
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Inspection tracking software allows for more efficient notification of scheduled and completed inspections thus allowing early handoff of areas among trades
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Supply chain management and production control to automate the control of labor and asset flow from fabrication to installation
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Quality assurance by using the coordination model in the field to inform the work-planning efforts, identify field constraints and ultimately validate the installation
Big Room Approach
Based on our experience on past projects, the Big Room concept has proven to be an accelerator in project launch for team alignment and collaboration and an enabler throughout project execution. The IPD team works in a co-located environment where teams can confer frequently and conveniently throughout the design and construction process fostering collaboration, trust and innovation. Equally important is ensuring the decision makers are active participants in the Big Room. We strongly recommend on early discussion on this concept to see how it can be adopted. The benefits in communication and decision-making are immense.
Alignment of Project Work Plans
As part of our Lean approach, our team conducts value stream mapping exercises with the project team to design the Project Work Plan. The Project Work Plan analyzes the flow of materials and information, efficiency of trades and availability of resources to deliver the project within the agreed upon parameters. Alignment on project execution strategy includes construction phasing, timeline, logistics planning and cost control.
Target Value Design
Target Value Design (TVD) will ensure the project goals and values (cost, schedule, constructability, etc.) are understood and delivered by the project team. We start by assisting with the validation of your building program and aligning the project team to the precise details, constructability and other key issues that cause roadblocks on traditional projects. Once the program has been validated and the team has agreed on a target value and costs very early, we support the design team with ”real time” budgeting of design alternatives and facilitate a “best value” approach to balancing the “cluster” budget while meeting or exceeding the project’s quality and schedule goals. The goal is to define the Target, design to the Target in a collaborative method and confirm the design with the Target.
Early Engagement of Trade Partners
When possible, we seek Early commitments of Design/Assist and Design/Build trade partners will provide real time data to help ensure the Project Team’s design intent and financial objectives are met. We typically propose selection of the following trade partners immediately which easily make up 60% of the construction budget for this type of facility:
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Structural steel
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Exterior Wall/Enclosure
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Mechanical
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Plumbing
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Electrical
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Fire Protection