Original Date: 04/01/1993
Revision Date: 01/19/2007

In 1990, McDonnell Douglas Aerospace (MDA) initiated a facility project to construct a 30,000 square foot, high bay, Energy Efficient Cleanroom. Because this facility would be used by several customers, had a limited budget, and a long term effect on the facilities plan, the Facilities Group applied a new approach to ensure that all requirements would be met. Therefore, the traditional practice limiting the end user's involvement in the design process had to be changed.

The Facilities Group applied Total Quality Management (TQM) principles to the process by forming a cross-functional team of the multiple intended users and all support organizations of the complex. An independent consultant then served as a facilitator in team meetings that addressed goals, facts, concepts, and needs in a process called Architectural Programming. The team was therefore able to establish common goals. Facts were gathered and analyzed, and concepts were uncovered and tested to determine the real needs of all users. The result of this effort was a problem summary manual which was developed by the consultant and used as the scope of work for the Design/Build Contract.

This structured process resulted in clearly defined requirements, first time quality, customer ownership, and provided a framework for timely decisions and early balance between requirements and budget. The facility was completed in July 1993.

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