THE FUTURE OF COLLABORATION: Exploring Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)

Western Built | Fall 2024
Jeff Rabinovitch, MSc, P.Eng., LEED® AP BD+C | Principal
Pat Elischer, BASc, MBA, P.Eng., Struct.Eng., PE, SE, LEED® AP | Principal

Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) is on the rise, breaking down barriers found in many typical construction projects. Hallmarked by open communication in a shared space dubbed as the ‘Big Room,’ this delivery method unites all project stakeholders from start to finish. The col­laborative framework champions shared risks, rewards, and a cohesive project vision, often accelerating construction timelines.

The popular method encompasses:

  • Team collaboration from early design through to completion;
  • A unified vision for all stakeholders;
  • Shared financial risks and rewards based on agreed-to project outcomes;
  • Fast-tracked communication in the Big Room;
  • Fiscal transparency;
  • Enhanced innovations through teamwork; and
  • Streamlined, consensus-based deci­sion making focused on “best for project” outcomes

Next-level collaboration

IPD has a great reputation for inte­grating the actual end user in a project’s early design stages. On RJC Engineers’ firehall IPD projects, there was always a firefighter in the Big Room. For The City of Burnaby’s RCMP facility, there was always a constable present. In Burnaby’s Rowan Childcare project, a childcare consultant was involved.

These end users were there to rep­resent and share their experience about what works best. They were engaged from start to finish, supporting the entire validation process through to the design procurement. These projects give end users a new space where they can work and/or live, drastically changing their everyday lives. As such, being able to access their feedback on IPD projects is an invaluable tool for understanding holistic community needs.

The collaborative nature of IPD also drives healthy competition. When you have a room of seasoned professionals drawing on white boards and detail­ing high-level coordination, personal interests are stripped away. The Big Room encourages lots of challenging conversations and debates that would not normally happen in a traditional project. Shared risks and rewards mean that everyone wins when the team wins together.

The rise of IPD

Western Canada’s IPD surge stems from municipalities. At their core, munic­ipal governments need to be account­able and transparent to their voters.

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