APPA Library

"Chapter 3: Facilities Master Plans: An Essential First Step in the Building Development Process"
Author: Wickerham, Wendell E., AIA
Published In: Stewardship & Accountability in Campus Planning, Design & Construction
Date: 2006

While the loosely developed process of handing an archiect a wish list has worked in the past for building designs, the complexities of multiple stakeholders, budgets, and building delivery options can result in costly delays and unrealistic expectations without a more thorough clarification of the project's mission and budget.  To avoid such problems, a carefully thought-out facilities master plan is the essential first step in validating or responsibly challenging the work of programming consultants. The FMP assists institutions in providng an accurate definition of the scope of the project and/or issues involved before initiating the traditional building design and construction services that architects and builders provide.  Presents case studies in which a facilities master plan was used to define projects and how potential problems were averted and benefits increased. Details the expansion of Emory University's Candler Library as an example of a successful FMP.

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