Establishing and processing client requirementsa key aspect of concurrent engineering in construction

• Published in: Engineering, construction, and architectural management Vol. 7; no. 1; pp. 15 - 28
• Main Authors: KAMARA, J.M., ANUMBA, C.J., EVBUOMWAN, N.F.O.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: MCB UP Ltd 01.01.2000
• Subjects: Client requirements processing; Concurrent engineering; Construction
• ISSN: 0969-9988
• DOI: 10.1108/eb021129

The realization that concurrent engineering can be adopted in construction has led to various efforts to develop appropriate tools and techniques for its implementation in the industry. This paper discusses the role of client requirements processing in implementing concurrent engineering in construction. Client requirements processing refers to the definition, analysis, and translation of client requirements into solutionneutral specifications for design. It is essential in maintaining focus on the client, and provides for the effective consideration, resolution and prioritization of the various perspectives within the client body. It also facilitates collaborative teamwork, compliance checking at every stage of the design and construction process, and the traceability of design decisions to explicit and implicit client requirements. The paper concludes with a description of a model for processing clients' requirements in construction, and an example of its practical application.