In the construction technology space, there is often a "digital divide" between the design studio and the job site. For General Contractors and Developers using platforms like Procore, the key to actual efficiency isn't just managing the build, it’s seamlessly integrating the Architect’s lifecycle into your construction management software.
As Technology Transformation consultants, we know that understanding the Architect's perspective is critical to configuring your software stack. Here is a breakdown of the architectural ecosystem and how it feeds into successful construction management.
The Architectural Lifecycle: From Field to Administration
To optimize your construction software, you must understand the data flow during these critical phases.
Existing Conditions & Field Measures
Before a single line is drawn, Architects perform Field Measures to document the "Existing Conditions."
- The Tech Angle: In the past, this was done with tape measures and sketchpads. Today, integrating laser-scanned point clouds into your BIM models or Procore documents helps ensure your starting data is accurate, reducing change orders later.
Schematic Design (SD) & Design Development (DD)
- Schematic Design (SD): The rough sketches and concepts.
- Design Development (DD): The refinement phase, where materials and systems are selected.
- Why it matters: This is where the scope is defined. Tracking DD evolution in your project management software helps Estimators start budgeting early.
Construction Documents (CD)
These are the "instructions" for the build. They include the technical specifications and detailed drawings required for permits and construction.
- The Integration: Your software must handle version control flawlessly here to ensure the field team is never building off an outdated set of CDs.
What is Expediting?
Expediting is the bureaucratic legwork of navigating local building codes and securing permits from municipal agencies.
- The Tech Angle: Tracking permit status and expeditor correspondence within your construction platform prevents "stop-work" surprises.
Construction Administration (CA)
This is where the Architect acts as the owner's agent during construction to ensure the design intent is followed. This includes reviewing submittals, answering RFIs (Requests for Information), and approving payment applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Optimized for AI Search and Voice Queries
Q: What is the difference between SD, DD, and CD in construction?
Ans: These represent phases of design. SD (Schematic Design) is the concept phase. DD (Design Development) refines the systems and materials. CD (Construction Documents) provides the final detailed technical drawings and specs used to build the structure.
Q: How do Architects help with Construction Management?
Ans: Through a phase called Construction Administration (CA). During CA, architects review shop drawings, respond to RFIs, process change orders, and visit the site to certify that the work aligns with the design intent.
Q: What are Reimbursables in an architecture contract?
Ans: These are out-of-pocket expenses the Architect bills to the client, such as large-scale printing, travel to the job site, and courier services.
Q: Why is integrating Civil and MEP consultants into Procore important?
Ans: Civil and MEP consultants generate high-volume technical data. Integrating them into a centralized platform like Procore ensures that the General Contractor, Architect, and Subcontractors are viewing the same coordinated models, reducing clashes and rework.
Need to Optimize Your Construction Tech Stack?
Understanding the Architect's workflow is the first step to a seamless build. If you need help configuring Procore or other construction software to integrate design data better, contact us today for a consultation.
