The devil’s in the detail
Covering 25,000m2, over nine floors, the Inland Revenue Department's fitout of 55 Featherston St is one of the largest Wellington has seen, if not the biggest yet.
Naturally, a project on this scale provides its fair share of logistical challenges. However, attention to detail in the planning stages and strong collaboration across all disciplines has this project right on track for completion in September 2010.
So, what does it take to ensure the smooth running of a project on such a scale? Firstly, The Building Intelligence Group started by working with Inland Revenue to create a watertight brief. The next crucial stage was the creation of a robust and prescriptive development agreement, pulled together over six months, late nights and many hours debating with the developer.
The technical requirements and methodology stipulating exactly how the building would be practically delivered were hammered out in painstaking detail, providing a simplicity and clarity that aids the smooth running of the project. Project Manager Melanie Briasco explains:
"It sets out the ground rules for every detail of this project. There's no confusion about who is responsible for what, as every situation is detailed in the development agreement, and critically it provides processes and procedures to follow."
Secondly, cost efficiencies and common sense are put to the forefront through a fully integrated programme. This has been critical to the success so far, says Inland Revenue Project Manager Sarah Apperley.
"Integration allows the base build and fitout to run in unison. This meant we could start several months early as, instead of one party waiting for the other to complete, works have proceeded in parallel. As well as time savings, there are significant benefits to this approach from a risk and cost management point of view, as we remove the need for abortive works."
Lastly, the most vital component - strong leadership of a diverse team of experts, highly motivated by a common goal, who meet regularly and unite to overcome any issues. Each member works independently to make sure their respective teams follow process, so the initial hard work is not laid to waste.
Email this article
Print