The architecture profession needs to employ systems building design in order to raise the rate of productivity and performance in construction. Changes have been made in architecture educational programs that recognize the shift in the role of the architect from design genius to building production manager. Systems design has led to changes within…

Basic information and guidelines on the use of URBS components are provided for use by architects and engineers. The URBS system was developed in response to the competitive bidding on performance specifications, incorporating user requirements, economic constraints, industry capability and trade practices. The essence of the URBS Project--the…

A fast-tracked technical school in Chicago is another tribute to this method of construction. Related articles are EA 504 766 (American School and University; v46 n7 Mar 74) and EA 504 854 (American School and University; v46 n8 Apr '74). Illustrated. (Author/MLF)

Systemized techniques and hardware for cutting planning and building costs without sacrificing quality. (RA)

Comprehensive building systems are the result of industry's search for markets, clients' desire for shorter hours and lower costs, and the growing complexity of building technology which requires the architect to depend on industry for research and development. Certain questions are raised by this trend. Will industry dominate architecture? Can…

The history, advantages, and disadvantages of component building systems are discussed. Application of the scientific method to the building industry forecasts the use of prefabrication and on-site erection of factory-made subsystems of buildings. Educational facilities in the United States, Canada, and England have made use of many different…

Examples of educational facilities using metal buildings to lower construction costs and increase flexibility. (MLF)

Describes a systems-designed elementary school in Plymouth, Indiana, designed to serve current and future needs efficiently and effectively. (JF)

Presently available design techniques, technologies, and management practices can significantly reduce the energy requirements of new buildings. A two-part section discusses solutions to the energy problem in the commercial, institutional, and industrial fields. (Author/MLF)

Discusses the School Construction Systems Development (SCSD) project, a system of mass produced facility components. The experience provided by the project should be of value to those using the systems approach to design and construction. (JF)

A history of prefabrication in Britain from the first Victorian innovations in wood, glass, and cast iron, through the developments of the inter-war years and the buildings of the immediate post-war period to the 'system building' of today is presented. The study is not confined to houses and flats but examines the influences of non-traditional…

The major systems development projects of the 1960's were concerned primarily with facility problems at the elementary and secondary levels. Rapidly increasing enrollments coupled with changes in both curriculum and in teaching methods created a demand for more flexible facilities that could be constructed rapidly and inexpensively. The success of…

The major special feature of a planned college building is the application of Academic Building System (ABS) planning concepts to the building design and construction. The primary feature of this approach is total future flexibility of general academic space by use of movable and compatible subsystems. These subsystems appear in the form of…

This report summarizes the findings and recommendations of a feasibility study of industrialized building method utilization in school construction. The 3-part format attempts to define the conditions necessary for the satisfactory operation of an industrialized building system for the benefit of the community; explain the conditions relevant to…