Technical Standards and Design Guidelines: Engineering the Future of Buildings
In today's rapidly evolving landscape, the concept of resiliency has become a cornerstone of sustainable building design. ​ As defined by the Resilient Design Institute, resiliency is "the capacity to adapt to changing conditions and to maintain or regain functionality and vitality in the face of stress or disturbance." ​ This principle is increasingly critical in ensuring that commercial buildings can withstand a myriad of environmental, sociopolitical, financial, and cultural impacts. ​
As we face unprecedented challenges such as climate change, technological advancements, shifting workforce dynamics, and potential manmade disasters, investing in resilient commercial buildings is not only a smart financial decision but also a responsible one. ​ Our Technical Standards and Design Guidelines (TSDG) reflect the principles of resilient design, focusing on three key pillars: integrated design, flexibility, and education. ​
Integrated Design: This collaborative approach involves bringing together a diverse team of stakeholders early in the design process. ​ Design professionals, construction experts, facility managers, and building users each contribute unique insights, ensuring that all aspects of the building's functionality and resilience are considered. ​ Early and ongoing collaboration helps prevent costly changes during construction and ensures that the building is optimized for long-term performance. ​
Flexibility: Buildings must be able to adapt to changing conditions, whether environmental, technological, or related to workforce dynamics. ​ Flexible structures, such as those designed to withstand earthquakes, demonstrate the importance of adaptability. ​ This principle extends to all aspects of a building, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, which can be designed for future modifications. ​ Modular interior systems and movable furniture allow spaces to be reconfigured easily, accommodating shifts in business objectives and employee preferences. ​
Education: Ongoing education is crucial for maintaining building resilience. ​ All stakeholders must understand the rationale behind resilient design strategies and how to utilize them effectively. ​ Education should be integrated throughout the design and construction process and continue well into occupancy. ​ This includes training occupants on the use of flexible systems and communicating the importance of resilience measures. ​
By prioritizing resiliency through integrated design, flexibility, and education, we can create commercial buildings that are not only sustainable but also capable of adapting to an uncertain future. ​ Investing in resilient buildings ensures long-term value and prepares us to face the challenges ahead together. ​
Building a World-Class Asset Management Program
Asset management is a strategic business discipline essential for optimizing resources, minimizing costs, and enhancing operational efficiency. A structured asset management, maintenance, and reliability engineering program—backed by strong leadership—ensures long-term success.
A well-maintained asset register serves as the foundation for effective asset tracking, covering everything from land and buildings to equipment, patents, and trademarks. This centralized system allows for quick retrieval of critical information and a clear understanding of the total cost of ownership, ultimately improving financial management and service delivery.
Advancements in laser scanning technology, combined with drones and point cloud conversion software, have revolutionized asset management. These tools create precise 3D as-built models, reducing costs and eliminating inefficiencies associated with traditional field measurement techniques.
Laser scanning is particularly transformative in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC), allowing building owners and operators to monitor, assess, and analyze physical data with unprecedented accuracy. Mobile and aerial scanning further enhance digital modeling, making it possible to document large-scale infrastructure such as roads and powerlines.
By integrating 3D scanning into Building Information Modeling (BIM), organizations gain a powerful tool for evaluating existing conditions, streamlining maintenance, and optimizing asset portfolios. This technology-driven approach enhances decision-making, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective asset management.