[make]SHIFT: Information exchange and collaborative design workflows

Abstract

This paper explores design processes requiring the invention and implementation of customized workflows for the optimization of design information exchange. Standard workflows in design software are typically dependent upon the use of proprietary file formats to communicate design intent across the design team. Software platforms promote "one-stop-shop" proprietary approaches to BIM where all team members and consultants ideally operate within a single model environment and store information within a single file format. While the 'single model' approach can be effective under some circumstances, this approach is often found to be limiting when the design process calls for the integration of other design toolsets and delivery processes. This is especially true for large complex projects where multiple participants with different software requirements need to collaborate on the same design. In these cases, various non-standard ways of working are often implemented, resulting in a new means of communicating design and building information across a team. This paper will outline the impact customized workflows have on the design process at NBBJ and evaluate their potential for leading to more innovative design and integrated teams. The first study will explore and evaluate the communication and collaborative process that took place in the design development and construction documentation stages of the Hangzhou Stadium. The second study will be an overview of ongoing investigation and experimentation into customized workflows for team and data integration.