Project Delivery Method for Facility Condition Assessments – A Study of Industry Practices by AEC Service Providers

Abstract

The practice of Facility Condition Assessments (FCA’s) in the built environment can be the first step in development of new business opportunities for architecture, engineering, construction and asset management firms. In the United States, more than $279 billion in building retrofit investment opportunities exist across all market segments, which could yield more than $1 trillion in owner savings over the next 10 years. (Rockefeller Foundation 2012). AEC providers have risen to the need by providing FCA services, however, little is understood of which AEC providers are providing FCA services and project delivery approaches of FCA services. This study identified key inputs and outputs of FCA project delivery, resulting in an FCA project delivery method. Additionally, this study took the first step towards evaluating how FCA results are integrated with technology. This is the first global study of its kind and sets in motion a call for AEC stakeholders to provide FCA interoperability with asset management, facility management and capital planning.

Alignment of Engineering Management and Education Using Facility Condition Assessments

“…FCAs can be administered using different project delivery methods. Hillestad [27] identified three primary FCA project delivery methods. The first method is an in-house self-performed FCA utilized by expert facility management departments with the resources to conduct condition assessments of their assets and systems internally.…”

“…FCA projects may have discrete inputs and outputs based on the project delivery method. Hillestad [27] identified the key inputs and outputs of FCA's. According to the study, the common inputs while conducting an FCA include interviews with a chief engineer or lead maintenance personnel, and a walk-through survey of the building, spaces, and equipment.…”

“…Table 3 summarizes these studies and the respective engineering education program. [23], [24], [25], [26], [27] Architectural Building Envelope (Windows, Exterior Doors, Curtainwall) [18], [23] Architectural Interior Finishes (Walls, Doors, Floors, Ceilings) [14] Architectural Roofing Systems [23] Mechanical Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (HVAC) [12], [16], [23], [28]. [ Facility asset management digital systems [23], [33] Technology Digital building information modeling [17], [18], [23], [38],…”