How a CDM Consultant transformed an architectural practice through proactive design risk management and workplace innovation

Picture this: A project in a business district of a busy city centre surrounded by commercial and residential buildings with various building constraints and careful planning, involving addressing several challenges to optimise space, functionality, and aesthetics while adhering to local authority requirements.

The office block contributed positively to the surrounding community by incorporating street-level retail spaces, green areas, and public art installations, fostering a vibrant urban environment.

This is how things went.

Our CDM consultant (David Cant), initiated a comprehensive hazard and design risk workshop with their design team. Through open dialogue, he identified significant hazards in the design phase and collaboratively crafted mitigation strategies.

For instance, recognising that coordination and communication gaps were recurring issues, David implemented a system for regular project updates, ensuring everyone was on the same page and reducing the risk of misunderstandings.

To further enhance their proactive approach, David introduced innovative design risk management exercises.

User-friendly tools facilitated timely collaboration and communication, enabling the team of architects to spot significant issues early on and address them swiftly, such as temporary works, work at height, and eliminating dust-creating tasks.

As a result, the organisation not only averted design pitfalls but also significantly reduced project delays and associated costs.

Beyond design risk management

David noticed a disconnect in the workplace culture. He initiated team-building exercises and workshops focused on fostering creativity and collaboration. One notable success was a design thinking workshop that encouraged architects to think outside the box, leading to groundbreaking concepts that surpassed client expectations.

The positive shift wasn’t just confined to the workplace; it extended to client relationships. David’s emphasis on proactive risk management instilled confidence in their clients, showcasing the organisation as not only talented designers but also reliable partners in project execution.

In summary, Veritas Consulting’s very own senior CDM consultant, David Cant, transformed the architectural practice by addressing design risk management head-on.

His strategic interventions, from hazard and risk management (HARM) workshops to innovative tool implementation, not only mitigated potential issues but also elevated the organisations overall efficiency and creativity.

The improved workplace culture and strengthened client relationships were byproducts of this holistic approach.

As the experience concludes, consider this:

In what ways can proactive risk management and a collaborative workplace culture revolutionise your own professional endeavours?

Perhaps you need help from an experienced CDM Consultant?

Go ahead, and get in touch!