The capital constructions costs account for only around 10% of the life-cycle of a building. We also know that our historical practices (concept through design to construction) are not 'lean' and we have up to 30% waste in labour, materials and time. We have to be more collaborative, innovative and forward thinking across the full spectrum of a projects life-cycle. This needs to be more integrated from the outset with owners being clear as to the desired outcome and realistic given available funding, while relying on expert consultants, contractors and trades to provide advice so long-term sustainability of facilities is not compromised in the design and construction phases. We have an opportunity though collaboration from the outset to demonstrate and improve the interdependent benefits of financial and environmental sustainability - they have to go hand in hand rather than being a choice! How do we improve communication, collaboration, adopt lean techniques that have been proven in the manufacturing sector, improve quality and consistency and reduce the time to deliver major projects. How can technology enable or assist in advancing our joint cause?
Andrew Sharman leads the Facilities & Operations portfolio that provides services to all five of UAlberta’s campuses. The portfolio is made up of six units: Ancillary Services, Human Resources Services, Operations and Maintenance, Planning and Project Delivery, Strategic Portfolio Services, and Utilities. Sharman brings a deep and broad experience from the public sector, having worked with Alberta Health Services and the former Capital Health in a number of senior leadership roles. In 2013, he was appointed Deputy Secretary to Cabinet and Deputy Clerk of Executive Council, working for three successive Premiers. Most recently, he served as Assistant Deputy Minister of the Health and Government Facilities Division with Alberta Infrastructure.
The capital constructions costs account for only around 10% of the life-cycle of a building. We also know that our historical practices (concept through design to construction) are not 'lean' and we have up to 30% waste in labour, materials and time. We have to be more collaborative, innovative and forward thinking across the full spectrum of a projects life-cycle. This needs to be more integrated from the outset with owners being clear as to the desired outcome and realistic given available funding, while relying on expert consultants, contractors and trades to provide advice so long-term sustainability of facilities is not compromised in the design and construction phases. We have an opportunity though collaboration from the outset to demonstrate and improve the interdependent benefits of financial and environmental sustainability - they have to go hand in hand rather than being a choice! How do we improve communication, collaboration, adopt lean techniques that have been proven in the manufacturing sector, improve quality and consistency and reduce the time to deliver major projects. How can technology enable or assist in advancing our joint cause?
