Before COVID 19, our client decided to improve the critical infrastructure using a prefab solution to replace all the electrical and HVAC existing systems for a tier 3 data center. Construction of these systems began when Covid 19 got into full gear.
International travel was shut down. Going onsite for factory witness testing was no longer an option, so we needed to pivot to be able to ensure quality of the prefab electrical and mechanical systems. Our team imagined ourselves as movie producers and directors to create a plan to monitor the manufacturing process. We used storyboarding and camera direction to plan, direct, and conduct remote site testing. Twitch was even used.

Once the equipment was built and tested, it needed to be shipped to site. The Cx team created an international logistics plan that addressed pandemic-related shipping delays and use that to our advantage for scheduling construction. We also faced materials shortages during construction; we used this information to inform a new strategy for the Owner’s spare part inventory, adding value in a novel way.

Covid limited onsite testing. We took a lesson from data center design and increased resiliency by creating redundant Cx teams and equipment. We used 360 degree photos and augmented reality to inspect the site before our visits. We reduced site time by pre-planning the work.

Covid threw us all for a loop, but with creative problem solving, taking lessons for data center design, and thoughtful planning, we were able to maintain a robust and quality commissioning process. Uncertainty in construction is only increasing. Using these lessons will help your next Cx effort not only run smoother but will help it be more profitable while adding value to your client’s bottom line.