Integrated Design Process (IDP): What is it?
IDP is a collaboration of professionals that harnesses their collective creativity, knowledge and experience to optimize all stages of the project.
IDP establishes a team of professionals consisting of the General Contractor (GC) Architect, Structural Engineer, Geotechnical Engineer and the input of trades likely involved in the build.
Why is IDP beneficial?
Bringing together a team of professionals for a project from the very beginning of the planning phase is the most effective way to create a plan that will have the best chance of staying on budget and allows the Builder to deliver the best possible product. The smallest details are examined prior to construction such as the lot layout, building envelope, structural coordination, heating/cooling and ventilation systems, the placement of mechanical systems and overall space design. This is to eliminate surprises and keep you informed of any possible complications or challenges.
The Builder has an early incentive to steer the process to stay within the client’s “must haves”, wishes and the budget. As the Builder enters in a long term relationship and wants to complete a successful project with the client, the incentive to stay within the client’s parameters are very high.
Using IDP makes it easier to achieve targets (high performance homes, affordability, etc.) as it allows for innovation. In a way it also simplifies the construction process with the “house-as-a-system” approach.
A typical contract under this IDP process would be a two stage deal with a pre-construction (design) component and the actual construction contract which could either be cost+ or a fixed price fee depending on build complexity. The confidence in being able to meet a budget with this process is high.
What does IDP Replace?
The IDP replaces the Conventional Design Process (CDP). The CDP is a design interaction between the client and an architect only. A finished design plan is then put out for tender to usually the lowest bidder. However, in many projects, there are shortfalls on the plans or surprises that no one expected. The reasons are: less time, energy and collaboration spent in early design stages. Often the heating system and/or other mechanical systems are overlooked, with no plan in place for adequate space to install, access and maintain the mechanical components or ventilation systems. Other shortfalls include issues related to proper coordination of structural and architectural aspects or specifying the proper location of mechanical ducts, all of which add unforeseen costs to a project. As well, structural or geotechnical conditions of the lot are often underestimated during the design phase and can add substantial cost during actual construction.
Once the house is designed the cost is largely determined and the builder can’t change that.
The incentive under this system is for architects to design to the clients parameters, but the budget incentive is minimal as it is thought that this is the GC’s responsibility. Once the house is designed the cost is largely determined and the builder can’t change that. The only variable is the builders fee for acting as the GC. If the GC gives a project costing based on the plans supplied, the incentive is to be ‘in and out’ as quickly as possible and that is when quality usually suffers. If there are any unforeseen items or issues the extra charges will go to the client. A typical contract under CDP would be a cost + fee or a fixed price contract depending on the complexity of the build. The confidence in being able to meet a budget is low.
When can you use IDP?
The IDP works well for new construction, substantial renovations and rebuilds. Always consider hiring a local firm as they are most experienced in the local conditions and can give a ‘heads-up’ on any eventual challenges or restrictions that can potentially avoid any extra costs or potential delays.
In the next blog we will look at some case studies of the CDP and explain why the IDP is a superior approach that saves time, money and energy.
