Starting project setup can be messy and there are many factors that influence the process. As you walk through this small journey, you’ll learn how to prepare, handle and get the correct files to make your project process smoother.

Collaboration

The first step in the project setup process is to become familiar with the people you’ll be working with. These people provide different pieces of information and will let you know of any changes in the project. If you collaborate and provide information, it leads to a smoother and easier project to enable you to accomplish your goals.

Program Requirements

These requirements are crucial, especially in the beginning when it is only an idea from the client. They help you understand what the project building is and any calculations that influence the project. Ask as many questions as you can to receive a better understanding of the project.

System Requirements

System requirements, especially on the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) side, are extremely crucial to the success of a project. The purpose is to set guidelines on equipment types, such as brands, size limits, budget and more. You cannot move forward without this information, so reach out to project leads to receive this information if it isn’t provided at the beginning.

As-Builts

Another key factor for any part of a project is “As-Builts.” An As-Built is the original building or structure of a project. Whether in AutoCAD or Revit, having the As-Built helps with project setup. If As-Builts are in AutoCAD, they need to be transferred to the latest version, cleaned up and exported to Revit for further clean up and easier modeling, if required. If As-Builts are already in Revit, follow the same process, minus the Revit export since it’s already in the software.

In this photo we have the existing or As-Built model. We can reference this and determine weather anything needs to be demolished or be able to keep anything to use.

Point Clouds

The next option is a Point Cloud, or 3D scan, which is a laser-scanned model. This provides a more accurate version of the model since it was taken directly from the field. Usually this method yields many different file formats, but Recap works with Revit to make the process easier. When the designer receives the point cloud, it is set up in Revit as “Center to Center” or “Origin to Origin,” which helps specify the model’s appearance. Point cloud models also benefit when placing walls and pipes and making other minor changes to match the As-Built’s model.

With this Point Cloud (3D Scan) we can determine what the building currently looks like before any demolishing or design is implemented. This helps make accurate decisions for what is needed for the new design.

Project Execution Outline

The most important piece to the project process is Project Execution Outline. This key component determines how a project flows and what dates are crucial. The outline does not change unless it is altered by the project lead. Stick to the outline to avoid hiccups and streamline the project process.

Above is a generic Project Execution Plan. Companies can also have their own customized plans to show how the project will flow.

Conclusion

From knowing the pieces involved with a project to the Project Evaluation Outline, there are many things that lay the ground for a successful project. If you know the people, the project can be finished faster and with ease by receiving the information required for the project.

With knowledge of program requirements, you’ll know the capabilities of the software you have, what you need for the as-builts and if you need to make adjustments. When using as-builts, you’ll also have a better understanding of what type of building you are working with.

Overall, if you know the people, program requirements, capabilities, software, as-built conditions and project execution outline, you can start a project with ease.

For more information on our services and to learn how we can help you with project setup, please visit our Services page.

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This blog is written by MEP Technical Specialist Zachery Rico. If you have any questions or need help with your project needs, please email us at whyatg@atgusa.com.