A systems design specialist discusses where systems built schools are going. (Author)

Construction management--the control of cost and time from concept through construction--grew out of a need to meet the realities of today's economy. A checklist of services a construction manager provides is presented. (Author/MLF)

Describes how, with thorough planning, focus, teamwork, and discipline, school systems in Houston and San Diego have proven that they can manage massive and complicated construction programs without becoming mired in financial and bureaucratic difficulties. (EV)

Discusses the need to determine which construction approach best fits a school's unique needs before deciding how to design and build their facilities. The design-bid-build, construction management, and design-build approaches are examined; and tips for selecting a delivery method are listed. (GR)

Explores how schools and universities can make sure that construction sites do not pose a hazard to students or a temptation to thieves and vandals. Highlights safety recommendations for mounting construction projects while schools are in session. (GR)

Change orders. The words can turn the stomachs of administrators. Horror stories about change orders create fear and distrust among school officials, designers and builders. Can change orders be avoided? If car manufacturers can produce millions of intricately designed vehicles, why can't the same quality control be achieved on a construction…

The old adage, "what goes up must come down," can be used to describe education construction spending in 2005. After impressive gains in expenditures during the first half of the decade, total construction spending by schools and universities pulled back from historic highs. A combination of factors, including skyrocketing fuel and…

Practical observations of participants in the Construction Systems Programs of the Detroit Public Schools. (Author)

A construction manager can relieve administrators of much of their uncertainty in building or renovating schools in the areas of scheduling, quality, and costs. (MLF)

These guidelines present optional strategies to be considered in designing schools to be more energy efficient and sustainable. The guidelines are organized by the following design and construction process: site selection; selection of A & E design team; programming and goal setting; schematic design; design development; construction…

This guide provides assistance to key personnel charged with developing an independent school construction process in New South Wales (Australia). The guide's eight booklets emphasize the importance of master plans; encourage cooperation of school staff, boards, and the surrounding community in building schools; and outline the planning process…

Confronted with old, inadequate, and overcrowded schools, Randolph County, West Virginia, turned a problem into a challenge and constructed five new elementary schools (and renovated nine other schools) in just one and one-half year's construction time. (Author)

Explains how putting the construction manager at greater risk for the projects he or she manages is of benefit to school districts. Why the low-bid process doesn't work and why school districts are still using it are discussed. (GR)

Examines school construction management (CM), the extent of its use in Indiana school corporations and the fees that are charged for these services. Results suggest a lack of consistency in deciding whether to use CM and the amount of the fee to be paid for the service. (GR)

Explores the use of a commissioning agent (CA) during school construction projects to ensure that all building systems work together and to specifications. The types of work done by a CA, the cost involved, and the overall benefits derived are outlined. (GR)