How what is the RIBA Plan Of Work?
RIBA Plan of Work: A Comprehensive Guide
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Plan of Work is a widely used model for the organization and management of construction projects. The plan provides a framework that outlines the various stages involved in the design, construction and delivery of a building project. It serves as a common point of reference for all parties involved in a project and helps to ensure that all work is carried out in a coordinated and effective manner.
The RIBA Plan of Work consists of eight stages, each with its own specific tasks and deliverables. In this blog, we will explore each of these stages in detail, outlining the key objectives, outputs, and responsibilities associated with each.
Stage 0: Briefing
The Briefing stage is the initial stage of the RIBA Plan of Work and is concerned with the identification of the client’s needs and requirements for the project. This stage is critical in ensuring that the project is set up for success as it lays the foundation for the design and construction process.
Objectives:
To understand the client’s needs and requirements for the project
To establish the project brief, which outlines the key requirements for the project
To agree on the project objectives and to define the scope of work for the project
Outputs:
Project brief
Project objectives
Project scope of work
Responsibilities:
Client
Architect
Other project team members (as required)
Stage 1: Concept Design
The Concept Design stage is the first stage of the design process and is concerned with developing a preliminary design concept for the project. This stage is an opportunity for the architect to develop a creative solution that meets the client’s requirements and objectives.
Objectives:
To develop a preliminary design concept that meets the client’s requirements and objectives
To agree on the overall design direction for the project
To identify any design constraints or limitations that may impact the project
Outputs:
Preliminary design concept
Design direction
Design constraints/limitations
Responsibilities:
Architect
Client
Stage 2: Scheme Design
The Scheme Design stage is a continuation of the Concept Design stage and is concerned with further refining the design concept into a detailed scheme design. This stage is where the architect will develop the design in more detail, taking into account any design constraints or limitations identified in the Concept Design stage.
Objectives:
To further refine the design concept into a detailed scheme design
To identify any technical and logistical issues that may impact the project
To agree on the design direction for the project
Outputs:
Detailed scheme design
Technical and logistical issues
Design direction
Responsibilities:
Architect
Client
Other project team members (as required)
Stage 3: Technical Design
The Technical Design stage is where the design is developed into a technical drawing and specification, ready for construction. This stage is concerned with the preparation of detailed technical drawings and specifications that accurately describe the construction details of the project.
Objectives:
To prepare detailed technical drawings and specifications that accurately describe the construction details of the project
To identify any technical and logistical issues that may impact the project
To agree on the construction methodology for the project
Outputs:
Detailed technical drawings and specifications
Technical and logistical issues
Construction methodology
Responsibilities:
Architect
Engineer (as required)
Contractor (as required)
Client
Stage 4: Tender Documentation
The Tender Documentation stage is where the technical design and specifications are used to prepare a tender package for construction contractors to bid on. This stage is critical in ensuring that the project is built in accordance with the design and specifications and that the construction works are delivered within budget.
Objectives:
To prepare a tender package that accurately reflects the design and specifications for the project
To invite construction contractors to bid on the project
To evaluate the bids received from construction contractors and select a contractor for the project
Outputs:
Tender package
Contractor bids
Selected contractor
Responsibilities:
Architect
Client
Quantity surveyor (as required)
Stage 5: Construction
The Construction stage is where the construction works for the project are carried out. This stage is concerned with the delivery of the project in accordance with the design and specifications and within the agreed budget.
Objectives:
To deliver the construction works in accordance with the design and specifications
To manage the construction process to ensure that the project is delivered on time and within budget
To ensure that the project is delivered to a high standard of quality
Outputs:
Completed construction works
Completed project
Responsibilities:
Contractor
Architect
Client
Stage 6: Handover and Close-Out
The Handover and Close-Out stage is where the completed project is handed over to the client for occupation. This stage is concerned with ensuring that the project is handed over in accordance with the agreed design and specifications and that any defects are rectified prior to handover.
Objectives:
To hand over the completed project to the client in accordance with the agreed design and specifications
To rectify any defects prior to handover
To ensure that the client is satisfied with the completed project
Outputs:
Completed project
Handover documentation
Client satisfaction
Responsibilities:
Contractor
Architect
Client
Stage 7: In-Use
The In-Use stage is where the building is occupied and used by the client. This stage is concerned with ensuring that the building is operated and maintained in accordance with the design and specifications, and that any issues are promptly addressed.
Objectives:
To operate and maintain the building in accordance with the design and specifications
To address any issues that arise during the in-use stage
To ensure that the building continues to meet the needs of the client
Outputs:
Operated and maintained building
Addressed issues
Continuously meeting the needs of the client
Responsibilities:
Client
Building operator (as required)
Building maintenance provider (as required)
Stage 8: End of Life
The End of Life stage is where the building reaches the end of its useful life and is decommissioned. This stage is concerned with ensuring that the building is decommissioned in an environmentally responsible manner and that any waste generated during the process is disposed of appropriately.
Objectives:
To decommission the building in an environmentally responsible manner
To dispose of any waste generated during the decommissioning process appropriately
To ensure that the decommissioning process is carried out in accordance with all relevant regulations and legislation
Outputs:
Decommissioned building
Appropriately disposed waste
Compliance with regulations and legislation
Responsibilities:
Building owner/operator
Decommissioning contractor (as required)
In conclusion, the RIBA Plan of Work is a comprehensive project management tool that provides a clear outline of the architectural design process. This plan offers a standardized approach to design and construction, breaking down complex projects into manageable stages, and ensuring that each stage is properly planned and executed. The RIBA Plan of Work offers benefits to all stakeholders involved in a construction project, including architects, clients, contractors, and project managers. With its systematic approach, it helps to ensure that all necessary considerations and tasks are covered, reducing the risk of errors, delays, and unexpected costs. If you are involved in an architectural project, it is highly recommended that you familiarize yourself with the RIBA Plan of Work, as it can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the entire project lifecycle.
