Integrated Design Process Core Concepts, Principles and Basic Practices for LEED NC 2009 Projects

When seeking to achieve LEED certification, it is easy for a team to become too rating point focused; where members start “chasing points” and doing only what is required to achieve each individual credit. This practice can greatly inhibit the overall harmony of a project’s sub-systems and subsequently constrict the projects overall environmental gains.

A recognized key to successfully avoiding such a scenario is to follow an integrated design process from start to finish, which includes building owners, developers, architects, designers, engineers and contractors. In fact, numerous LEED certified projects designed and built in the last several years were the result of integrated design processes.

This course will provide a detailed overview of the Integrated Design Process as it relates to achieving a LEED New Construction certification. This explanation will include the ANSI standard for Whole Systems Integration Process (also called the Sustainable Integrative Design and Development standard) with specific examples as to its relation to site, energy, water, and materials.

• Recognize the relationship between the Integrated Design Process and the LEED rating system.
• Identify how the specific phases of the Integrated Design Process relate to achieving LEED credits
• Understand the basic elements of the ANSI Approved Standard for the Whole Systems Integration Process.
• Identify practical analysis tools and techniques that are used in an Integrated Design project to assist in achieving LEED credits,