Tatge Advocates for Greater Framer Involvement in Building Design

In construction, time and money are the currencies in which we trade, and efficiency is the market where we compete. With more than 25 years in the industry,  I've seen the industry evolve and one thing has become increasingly clear: the traditional separation between stages of construction are not serving us. It's time to start bringing framers to the table early.

Why Early Collaboration Matters

The construction process is complex. Every process in a project needs to align to ensure timely completion. Traditionally, key design and material decisions are often made without framing experts at the table from the onset due to the segmented nature of our industry where each construction phase is handled in isolation.

However, this approach leads to inefficient use of resources and structural designs that are not optimized for practical assembly. However, when framers are involved from the outset, they bring a wealth of practical on-the-ground knowledge and experience that can streamline the entire project.

Enhanced Error-Free Design through Vertical Integration

Collaborating with architects and general contractors from the early stages, framers can provide insights that significantly impact a project’s design. This early involvement is a form of vertical integration, where all components of the construction process, from design to framing, are synced.

This sync ensures designs are not only correct but also practical to build. More communication reduces errors and promotes time and cost-effective approaches because framers, who are on the ground of a project, can address potential framing challenges that architects and contractors would miss.

Streamlined Scheduling

Incorporating framers from the project's inception allows for more realistic timelines. All parties are given the opportunity to align, leading to smoother project progression and adherence to schedules and budgets. Getting framers in early helps us anticipate and address issues before they escalate, keeping projects on schedule. This approach ensures a smoother workflow.

Cost Savings

And it goes without saying that the biggest advantage of bringing framers in early is the cost savings. Due to staying on budget and schedule, we're able to use contracted labor's time more efficiently and guide decisions on materials and methods that save money without compromising quality. Framers, for example, can recommend material, delivery, and construction advice that will keep the project within budget.

Looking Ahead

At DC Materials, we've taken on significant projects in Wisconsin and delivered them with unprecedented efficiency. Our ability to control both labor and materials, combined with being at the table early allows us to guarantee schedules and streamline the construction process, proving that early collaboration is not just beneficial but essential.

I invite our industry to let go of outdated silos. The construction industry is ready for a major shift. By removing the traditional barriers between project phases, we can work toward a more efficient industry.