Designing a forward-thinking research building without identified occupants is a bold undertaking. Through an integrated planning and data-driven process, North Carolina State University designed a flexible academic research building, inspiring cross-functional collaboration which has led to increased industry partnerships and innovation.

Leading a session at the SCUP Annual Conference, Flad's Chuck Mummert and Elizabeth Strutz will be joined by Bill Davis of NC State as they detail how they leveraged benchmarking, analytics, and an integrated planning process to design NC State's innovative Plant Sciences Building.

This session will highlight how a collaborative team enabled decision-making throughout the design process to create a future-proofed, energizing hub for academic research.

Learning Outcomes:

• Outline a stakeholder engagement and integrated planning process that supports innovations in program development.
• Embrace team-building activities throughout the design and construction process to develop trust and capitalize on strengths within the design, construction, leadership, occupant, and facilities teams.
• Plan creatively to maximize external industry partner engagement with academic groups.
• Use benchmarking, data, and pre- and post-occupancy evaluations to make informed decisions about space allocation and design.

About the event >
The Society for College and University Planning (SCUP) annual conference is a national event that connects higher education professionals from all across campus and the community to share integrated planning strategies that are breaking down silos and creating sustainable solutions.