How does the construction process work?
ANSWER: The Akademiska Hus construction process takes place close to the customer. We have a well-developed construction process and specific procedures for planning that bring in the right skills and are based on the customer’s requirements and the complexity and size of the buildings. We have developed this working approach together with our tenants over many years.
The process varies depending on the type of project and contract. Collaborative contracts ensure greater cooperation between Akademiska Hus and the contractor. They improve the efficiency of projects and enable us to draw on the skills and experience of contractors. The construction process generally consists of these different phases:
Initial stage – Case preparation
The initial stage of the construction process involves managing and investigating issues. This is initiated when a need for premises is identified. A description of activities and a summary of practical requirements are drawn up for the new premises to define the type of premises needed and to identify the needs of the customer and the property owner.
Planning stage – Planning documents
Planning documents for the project are prepared during the planning stage, where key decisions are made regarding aspects such as building size, technical standard and design in general. The planning documents give a summary of the requirements for a project and provide collective information for reaching decisions on planning.
System stage – System documents
This stage involves investigation into which technical systems, materials, etc., provide the best solutions to meet project requirements. System documents provide a picture of the planned building, its construction and its technical systems, and form the basis for costing the work involved. The environmental plan and health and safety plan for the project are also agreed at this stage.
Construction document stage – Construction documents, procurement
The system documents are then used to prepare the construction documents, which are the execution instructions that contractors use to produce their tenders. Procurement of contractors then takes place.
Construction stage – Construction
The construction stage involves the physical erection of the project buildings and installations. Great emphasis is placed on testing technical functions (“coordinated testing”) before the final inspection that concludes the construction stage.
Occupancy stage – Follow-up, management
When the project is completed the premises are handed over to the customer, and the building then moves into the management stage. Follow-up meetings are held to deal with any outstanding issues and take advantage of opportunities for feedback into future projects.