Re-engineering the design and construction processes for in situ concrete frames

Abstract

This paper summarises the aims and objectives of the European Concrete Building Project and sets into context the construction and research on the in situ concrete building which has been completed to date. The in situ building was the focus of a business process re-engineering study during its design and construction. The primary output from the process research studies on the in situ concrete building is a series of short punchy Best Practice Guides. These are intended to be a stimulus for change, helping eliminate outdated practices and providing designers and contractors with the techniques and tools upon which a longer term cycle of continuous improvement will be based. Review of the design of the in situ building to Eurocode 2 carried out by Buro Happold has highlighted potential areas for improvement. Details of the performance research projects completed to date are summarised and plans for further projects explored. The application of the findings from the research undertaken has the potential to revolutionise current methods of working, practices and procedures with dramatic benefits in terms of efficiency. However, this will require commitment from the industry at large to be open-minded and critically review the way things are done at present. This project has met the Egan challenge of reducing capital costs and construction time by 10% per annum. It is now planned to demonstrate these savings on a selection of practical projects implementing some of the innovative thinking developed in this programme.