________________________________________________________________________________________________ Main
Interview to share goals, challenges and constraints, but let the team provide the solutions. NREL is particularly open to this way of working and has refined its process over time, starting with its first net-zero building constructed in 2010.“ Additionally, we have a strong focus on virtual design and construction( VDC), which helps to coordinate the process across the team. While VDC or technology can enhance any project delivery method, you tend to get optimal results in design-build because of the early team collaboration. Some people think technology solves the problem, but we think it’ s people, process and then technology. Technology isn’ t always the answer alone and we advocate this approach, so much so that we introduced a new member of staff to help to educate the industry on this topic.
“ Similarly, sustainability is always elevated in the design-build process. Some owners believe it’ s too costly to incorporate sustainability, so we released a position statement on design excellence about 18 months ago. We talk about what design
construction-today. com 15