Planning + Programming

Programming precedes architectural design. It provides a detailed description of the functional requirements and associated space allocations of a proposed project or multiple related projects, while also addressing the qualitative needs of the institution and occupants of the space. A program may be developed in phases – first documenting the client’s space and needs assessment, and then providing a detailed program of spaces. Proper programming, where all elements are included and sized to achieve the project’s objectives, is required in order to achieve facilities that are aesthetically pleasing as well as operationally effective, comfortable, safe and efficient for the building users and occupants. MCA believes that an accurate program is best achieved through an interdisciplinary, collaborative approach working directly with facility managers and the various stakeholders. A complete program involves the optimization of functional adjacencies, the proper application of circulation and other efficiency factors, and a detailed description of all anticipated space needs. This includes subjective spatial qualities, anticipated occupant loads and consideration of finishes, lighting, safety, acoustical, and loose equipment considerations. It also delineates minimum expectations for the subjective and qualitative aspects of a project that impact institutional status and the wellbeing of facility users and occupants. With MCA’s experience and knowledge of relevant industry standards and benchmarks, we serve as a subject matter expert, facilitator, coach, and translator of our client’s intentions, so they can successfully prepare for the design process. MCA’s programming efforts have helped avoid unnecessary duplication of space, minimize unusable space, and reduce operating costs – ultimately leading to higher building owner and user satisfaction.

MCA performs studies to assist our clients further define or refine the scopes of their asset management and capital improvement initiatives. Feasibility and concept studies can involve the testing of a series of assumptions, alternatives, and solutions to determine if a proposed project can meet the Owner’s requirements – whether those requirements are based on design specifics, function, budget, schedule, or other key parameters. While these studies typically do not involve detailed design, they may involve preliminary design, design test fits, and alternatives analysis in order to provide adequate data for evaluation and consideration. They often include preliminary cost estimates, implementation and phasing strategies, and initial assessments of code and permitting constraints. We find that by the use of a feasibility or concept study clients avoid the possibility of a disconnect between an “idealized“ program, and a program that can actually work comfortably within the parameters of an existing facility. As such, we often run feasibility studies for existing facilities concurrently with the programming efforts. This serves to focus expectations on what is readily achievable and streamline the actual design process in later phases. It can also identify early strategies for further design exploration in later phases, such as the use of infill construction, additions, re-use of “found” space or space consolidations. Well-executed studies provide informed early design deliverables that have a positive impact on influencing key decision makers and project funding sources.

Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research Expansion Study

Since 1986, MCA has been privileged to work for various Department of Defense (DoD) agencies. We support military construction (MILCON) projects from “cradle to grave” – from concept through construction. MCA’s planners assist our clients with scope development, requirements analysis, site selection, and programming, ultimately resulting in the development of a complete DD Form 1391 package. These efforts include identification of alternatives, consideration of various phasing approaches and acquisition strategies, and preparation of life cycle economic analysis to justify projects based not only on their mission impacts, but also their cost avoidance and savings potential. MCA understands the importance of proper up-front planning and accurate project documentation – often years in advance of execution – in order to justify the project to senior leadership and have it rank well among competing priorities for limited funding resources. We consider it an honor to support our military and play a role in shaping its real property assets.
Russell-Knox Building – Military Department Investigative Agencies, Quantico, VA 719,000 square feet, 129 Acres, 3000 employees