Introduction

Design management as a part of the project management process must be related to one or
some of the project management methodologies, the process must be dynamic, proactive and
open to the new ideas and technics.

Architecture design projects are probably complex, involve multiple stakeholders, require
collaboration, and have phases like conceptual design, schematic design, design development,
construction documents, bidding, and construction administration. They might also need to
handle changes, client feedback, regulatory compliance, and coordination with engineers and
contractors. Documentation and approvals are critical, so a method that ensures thorough
documentation and clear stage gates might be necessary. Also, client involvement is important,
so a method that allows for regular client feedback could be beneficial.

Also, integrating BIM (Building Information Modeling) in our management process is highly
required, so a methodology that supports collaboration and integration with BIM tools would
be advantageous.

The best approach is likely a hybrid methodology that combines the structured phase-gate
approach of Waterfall or PRINCE2 with Agile's flexibility for iterative design work, incorporating
Lean principles for efficiency and collaboration tools like BIM. This would address the need for
clear milestones, client feedback, adaptability, efficient resource use, and stakeholder
collaboration, which summarized as follow:

 Phase-Gated Governance (Waterfall/PRINCE2)

 Iterative Design Sprints (Agile/Scrum)

 Waste Reduction (Lean)

 Quality control (Kaizen)

 Collaborative Integration (BIM/IPD)

1 Manual Methodology

1.1.Purpose
To standardize the design process while balancing structure, creativity, collaboration, and
efficiency across all project phases.

1.2.Scope
Covers pre-concept to construction documents, including roles, workflows, tools, and quality
controls.

1.3. Key Principles

1. Phase-Gated Structure (Waterfall/PRINCE2)

o Align with the AIA's defined phases (Conceptual Design, Schematic Design,
Design Development, etc.), treating each as a stage with formal approvals
("gates") before proceeding. This ensures compliance, documentation, and clear
milestones.

o Use PRINCE2 principles for risk management, defined roles, and stage-controlled
governance.

2. Agile/Scrum for Iterative Design Work

o Embed sprints within phases (e.g., Schematic Design) to tackle complex tasks
(structural systems, façade design, obtaining permits). Daily stand-ups and sprint
reviews foster adaptability and client/stakeholder feedback.

o Use BIM tools for real-time collaboration, enabling multidisciplinary teams

(architects, engineers) to iterate efficiently.

3. Lean Principles for Efficiency

o Streamline workflows to eliminate waste (e.g., redundant meetings, over-

documentation). Focus on value-driven tasks and continuous improvement
(Kaizen).

4. Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) Mindset

 o Encourage early involvement of contractors, clients, and consultants to align
goals, share risks/rewards, and reduce delays. This complements Agile
collaboration.

5. Supporting Tools

o BIM (Revit, Navisworks, Dynamo) for integrated design and coordination.

o Project Management Software (Asana, Trello, or Procore) for task tracking and
communication.

o Critical Path Method (CPM) for scheduling critical milestones.

1.4.Why This Works

 Structure + Flexibility: Waterfall/PRINCE2 ensures regulatory compliance and clear
phase progression, while Agile allows adaptive design iterations.

 Collaboration: IPD and BIM promote stakeholder alignment, reducing conflicts and
rework.

 Efficiency: Lean minimizes waste, keeping projects on time and budget.

Kaizen will control quality review by avoiding resistance and abandonment.

1.5.When to Use This Approach

 For complex, multi-stakeholder projects requiring both creativity and rigorous
documentation.

 In environments where client feedback and regulatory approvals are frequent but must
coexist with structured timelines.

This hybrid model balances the rigidity of traditional methods with the adaptability needed for
creative, collaborative design work, making it ideal for architecture projects.
2 Project Phases & Hybrid Workflows

1. Pre-Design Phase
 Objective:

 Define project goals, constraints, and stakeholder alignment.

 Collect project information.

 Align client vision with technical requirements.

 Key Activities:

 Client needs assessment (workshops, surveys).

 Site analysis (GIS, zoning codes).

 Initial cost estimation.

 Tools/Methods:

 Lean: Value Proposition Canvas (to align client values).

 Agile: Sprint 0 (planning sprint for stakeholder alignment).

 Deliverables:

 Project Charter (scope, budget, roles).

 Pre-Design Report.

2. Conceptual Design (CD)

 Objective:

 Develop high-level design concepts.

 Applicable design codes and design constrains implementation.

 Key Activities:

 Brainstorming sessions (design charrettes).

 Massing studies and spatial planning.

 Sustainability strategy (LEED/WELL goals).

  Hybrid Workflow:

 Agile Sprints: 2-week sprints for concept iterations.

 Daily stand-ups for team alignment.

 Sprint review with client/stakeholders.

 Sprint code review (local regulations, ADA).

 Lean: Eliminate redundant concepts early using client feedback.

 Tools/Methods:

 BIM (Revit for massing models).

 Miro/MURAL for virtual collaboration.

 Deliverables:

 Concept sketches, 3D massing models.

 Sustainability roadmap.

3. Schematic Design (SD)

 Objective:

 Refine concepts into schematic layouts.

 Core Team and sub-consultants Collaboration.

 Compliance with brief, code, and budget.

 Key Activities:

 Floor plans, elevations, and material palettes.

 Coordination with engineers (MEP, structural).

 Hybrid Workflow:

 Phase Gate: Formal approval before moving to Design Development.

 Agile: Sprints for system-specific tasks (e.g., façade detailing structural systems,
obtaining permits).

 Lean: Use A3 reports to document design decisions.

  Tools/Methods:

 BIM Coordination Matrix and Clash Detection (Navisworks).

 Asana/Trello for task tracking.

 Deliverables:

 Approved SD drawings.

 Preliminary cost estimate.

4. Design Development (DD)

 Objective:

 Finalize technical details and specifications.

 Key Activities:

 Detailed drawings (wall sections, material specs).

 Coordination with contractors (early IPD involvement).

 Hybrid Workflow:

 Agile: Sprints for high-risk areas (e.g., structural connections, long lead items).

 Lean: 5S methodology to organize drawing sets and design libraries.

 Tools/Methods:

 BIM (Revit + Dynamo for automation).

 Procore for document control.

 Deliverables:

 DD drawing set.

 Material schedules, performance criteria.

 Updated cost model.

5. Tender / Construction Documents (IFT / IFC)
 Objective:

 Produce legally binding documents for construction.

 Key Activities:

 Finalize technical drawings, schedules, and specs.

 Hybrid Workflow:

 Waterfall: Strict phase-gate QA/QC reviews.

 Agile: Daily scrums to resolve coordination issues.

 Tools/Methods:

 BIM (Revit + Bluebeam for markups).

 PlanGrid for construction control.

 Deliverables:

 Tendering-ready IFC set.

 Obtaining building permits.

 Priced Bill of Quantities (BOQ)

6. Construction Phase
 Site Supervision: RFI (Request for Information) process, change orders.

 Sub-Consultant Roles: Facade lighting, waste management, traffic reviews.

 Chart: Snagging and Defects Tracker.

7. Closeout & Handover

 As-Built Documentation: Updated drawings, O&M manuals.

 Post-Occupancy Evaluation: Feedback loop for future projects.

3. Core Teams & Responsibilities

3.1 Architectural Design
 Workflow: Concept → SD → DD → CD.
 Integration Points: Liaise with
structural and MEP for spatial
planning.
 Diagram: Architectural Design
Process (swimlane flowchart).
3.2 Interior Design
 Coordination: Finishes, lighting, FF&E
(Furniture, Fixtures, Equipment).
 Chart: Material Approval
Matrix (client sign-offs).
3.3 Structural Engineering
 Deliverables: Load calculations,
foundation plans.
 Integration: Clash resolution with
MEP routes.
 Diagram: Structural Design
Coordination (BIM clash detection).
3.4 Electromechanical (MEP)
  Workflow: Schematic layouts →
Detailed ductwork/pipe routing.
 Chart: MEP Systems Compliance
Checklist (energy codes, HVAC
efficiency).
3.5 Landscape Design
 Coordination: Hardscape/softscape
integration with drainage.
 Diagram: Site Grading and Drainage
Plan.
3.6 Quantity Surveying (QS)
 Tools: Cost estimation software (e.g.,
CostX), BoQ templates.
 Chart: Cost Tracking
Dashboard (budget vs. actual).

4. Sub-Consultants & Specialty Services

4.1 Infrastructure Engineering
 Scope: Roads, utilities, stormwater
management.
 Diagram: Site Servicing Layout.
4.2 Fire Life Safety
 Deliverables: Fire escape plans,
smoke control systems.
 Chart: Fire Safety Compliance
Tracker (local codes, NFPA).
4.3 Acoustics
 Coordination: Noise control in HVAC,
partition walls.
 Diagram: Noise Mapping (dB levels
across floors).
4.4 Facade Engineering
 Workflow: Thermal performance,
wind load analysis.
 Chart: Facade Material Testing
Schedule.
4.5 Traffic Engineering
 Scope: Parking layouts,
vehicular/pedestrian flow.
 Diagram: Traffic Simulation Model.
4.6 Waste Management
  Integration: Recycling zones, waste
chute design.
 Chart: Waste Volume Calculation (per
occupancy type).
4.7 Facade Lighting
 Coordination: Aesthetic lighting with
electrical loads.
 Diagram: Lighting Intensity Map.

5. Tools & Standards

 BIM Execution Plan: LOD (Level of
Detail) requirements, collaboration
platforms (Revit, Navisworks).
 Document Control: Naming
conventions, cloud storage (e.g.,
Aconex).
 Quality Assurance: Peer reviews,
checklists.
 Diagram: BIM Workflow (data
exchange between disciplines).
6. Risk Management
 Risk Register: Identify design delays,
cost overruns, regulatory changes.
 Mitigation Strategies: Contingency
planning, iterative client reviews.
 Chart: Risk Matrix (likelihood vs.
impact).

7. Communication Plan
 Meetings: Weekly coordination,
monthly stakeholder updates.
 Reporting: Design status, unresolved
clashes.
 Diagram: RACI Matrix (Responsible,
Accountable, Consulted, Informed).

8. Appendices
 Templates: RFI forms, meeting
minutes, change order logs.
 Standards: ISO 19650 (BIM),
LEED/Estidama checklists.
 References: Local building codes,
sustainability certifications.
3 Collaboration & Communication

1. Roles & Responsibilities (RACI Matrix)

 Project Manager: Oversees phase gates and budgets.

 Design Lead: Manages Agile sprints and BIM coordination.

 BIM Manager: Ensures model integrity and collaboration.

 Client/Contractor: Integrated into reviews via IPD.

2. Stakeholder Engagement
 Agile Ceremonies: Sprint reviews, retrospectives.

 Lean Meetings: Weekly "Big Room" sessions for cross-team alignment.

4 Tools & Technology

1. BIM Workflow
 LOD Requirements: Define Level of Development per phase.

 Collaboration: Cloud-based BIM 360/Revit for real-time updates.

4.2 Project Management Software

 Waterfall: Microsoft Project for Gantt charts (Critical Path Method).

 Agile: Jira/ClickUp for project tracking.

4.3 Lean Tools

 Kanban boards (physical/digital) for task visualization.

 Value Stream Mapping to eliminate bottlenecks.

5. Quality Control & Risk Management
5.1 Phase-Gate Reviews
 Formal checklists for deliverables at each phase (e.g., SD approval).

 PRINCE2 Risk Register: Document and mitigate risks early.

2. Agile Adaptability
 Use sprint retrospectives to refine workflows.

 BIM clash detection to preempt construction issues.

5.3 Lean Continuous Improvement

 Kaizen events post-phase to optimize processes.

6. Templates & Appendices

6.1 Sample Workflows
 Sprint plan template (e.g., 2-week DD sprint).

 Lean A3 problem-solving template.

6.2 Checklists
 Pre-Design Site Analysis Checklist.

 CD Phase QA/QC Checklist.

6.3 Glossary
 Definitions for Agile, Lean, BIM, IPD, and CPM terms.

7. Continuous Improvement
 Post-Project Retrospective: Document lessons learned.

 Knowledge Base: Maintain a BIM library and Lean playbook.