Abstract
Design quality considers the extent to which the owner’s requirements are accurately
synthesized into conformance specifications and drawings for the construction team to execute.
Expected superior performance and sustainability of a green building require diligence in design
to ensure its specifications are accurately stipulated. Several studies reported mismatches between
expected and actual performances in green buildings that were attributed to poor design. This study
thus revisits the design process and proposes a framework to map the quality activities in the project
brief and design stages using the integration definition for function modeling (IDEFO) process.
Semi-structured interviews and a focus group validated the framework and revealed issues in the
current design practice that cause insufficient design solutions. Additionally, project delivery systems
were discussed, with conditions for improving their suitability. This research contribution elucidates
recommended quality activities necessary for green buildings, which often are not implemented in
the construction industry, to ultimately ensure that green buildings are properly designed to meet
sustainability objectives.
Keywords
Green Buildings
Quality performance
project delivery systems
Sustainability
Construction Industry
Design quality