ATTRIBUTES THAT A/E NEED TO UNDERTAKE CONCURRENT ENGINEERING

Concurrent engineering is widely practised in design-build (DB) projects. In order to ensure concurrent engineering proceeds smoothly, it is important to put in place A/E who possess the ‘right’ attributes. The purpose of this study is to identify the attributes that designbuilders consider when they select architects and engineers (A/E) to handle DB projects and undertake concurrent engineering (CE). Data were collected via mailed standard questionnaire from design-builders. For comparison, data were also collected from A/E. From the point of view of design-builders, the most important attributes are the A/E’s job knowledge in economical design, constructability and regulations that are relevant to the project. In addition, they must have good problem solving ability and project approach. It is not necessary for A/E to belong to a large firm. On the other hand, many attributes which design-builders feel are important, have not been given the same level of importance by A/E. These include having a manageable level of workload, and having the necessary job experience. It is recommended that A/E take note of these attributes, in order that they could be engaged in projects involving CE.