Constructability
Part I: Maximizing Simplicity 
Structure Magazine, June 2006, by David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E., SECB
Constructability involves the process of thinking through the entire project prior to beginning the actual design. Such an activity focuses on maximizing the simplicity, economy and speed of construction, while considering the site conditions, code restrictions and owner’s requirements. Constructability requires consideration of the entire construction process beginning with the conceptual design stage. It is based on the philosophy that maximum project benefits occur when construction industry professionals become involved during the earliest stages of development.
Constructability
Part II: Award Winning Constructability: Lansing Community College
Structure Magazine, August 2006, by David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E., SECB
At Lansing Community College, Constructability was introduced at the stage of bidding, fabrication and installation; the project schedule and the architectural envelope had been established at this point. Ruby+Associates was presented with the opportunity to partner with Douglas Steel and provide a cost effective redesign in an attempt to deliver the steel structure of the building within budget. The result is the National Council of Structural Engineering Association's (NCSEA) 2005 Excellence in Structural Engineering Award winner!
Constructability
Part III: Maximizing the Impact of Constructability
Structure Magazine, November 2006, by David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E., SECB and Jay Ruby, P.E.
This article is the third in a series on Constructability. The impact of integrating this philosophy is maximized when it is initiated at the onset of a project, during the planning and conceptual design phases. The case study reviewed here features the process for accomplishing this, and presents the tremendous impact that this process delivered for Mercy Health Partners at their new regional heart center in Toledo, Ohio.
Constructability
Part IV: Constructability Drives Structural Design at Ford Field
Structure Magazine, February 2007, by David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E., SECB and Brian M. Volpe, P.E., S.E.
This article is the fourth in a series on Constructability. In the first three of the series, Constructability was defined and the stages of Constructability outlined. The impact of integrating this philosophy at various stages of design was examined – at the bid stage and during planning and conceptual design (when it can be maximized). This article focuses on the application of Constructability to solve tough challenges that required resolution during the construction of Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions.
Constructability
Part V: Constructability Specialists: Great Synthesizers
Structure Magazine, June 2007, by David Ruby, P.E., S.E., SECB, F.ASCE
This article is the last in a series on Constructability in Structure magazine. Previous articles defined Constructability, established its role in the project planning and design process, described its foundation in construction knowledge and experience, and provided case studies that demonstrated the positive impact of Constructability on total project cost. While Constructability delivers immediate value to a project, this design philosophy has a much broader appeal: Constructability positions the engineering profession to remain a relevant asset to clients in the future. The following thoughts describe why and how.
Ruby
on Interoperability
AISC, September 2004, by David Ruby, P.E., S.E.
INTEROPERABILITY is the ability to manage and communicate electronic product and project data between collaborating firms. It allows the exchange and management of electronic information, where individuals and systems are able to identify, access, and integrate information across multiple systems. The goal of interoperability is to create greater efficiencies by eliminating the manual reentry of data, duplication of business functions, and the continued reliance on paper-based information management systems. This article describes the application of Interoperability and the benefits experienced by the project team.
Consider
Constructability
Modern Steel Construction, April 2006, by Robert C. Aeck, P.E. and David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E.
CONSTRUCTABILITY is defined by the Construction Industry Institute (CII) as “the optimum use of construction knowledge and experience in planning, design, procurement, and field operations to achieve overall project objectives.” True incorporation of the constructability philosophy involves thinking through an entire project before beginning the actual design, which is rarely done. It focuses the team on maximizing the simplicity, economy, and speed of construction, while considering the site conditions, code restrictions, and owner’s requirements. Constructability drives consideration of the entire construction process during the conceptual design stage.
Designing
for Long Spans
Modern Steel Construction, August 2007, by Jay Ruby, P.E.
Design of long span systems - structural systems that cross long distances with large open spaces – is characterized by unique challenges. Typically found in arenas, convention centers and hangars, these structural systems push the envelope of what structures can do.
Constructability
– Now More than Ever!
Modern Steel Construction, February 2008, by David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E.
Applying the philosophy of constructability into your projects will garner numerous benefits.From the heart of the steel belt, during the boom era of the US steel industry, Dave Ruby's passion for constructing with steel incorporates lessons learned over three decades.
Quality
Assurance for Structural Engineers: Are We Where We Should Be?
Modern Steel Construction, May 2006, by David I. Ruby, P.E., S.E.
In the structural engineering profession, we are all about quality assurance – it is a critical ingredient in how we work. We have focused numerous efforts over the past decades on improving the quality of our products – Total Quality Management (TQM), ISO 9000 and CASE RMP program are only the most recent sweeping initiatives that have been used to evaluate each piece of our work process and improve our engineering product.
Structural
Steel Economy: Revisiting the Assumptions
Modern Steel Construction, January 2009, by Jay Ruby, P.E. and John Matuska, P.E.
Structural engineers face a myriad of choices as they proceed through the design decision matrix for a project. As decisions are made, careful consideration must be given to use of materials, labor requirements and schedule implications to deliver the most economical design – a goal that will be even more important in today’s economic climate. This article revisits some myths of structural design that have a tremendous impact on economy of design.
BIM
Interoperability: The Promise and the Reality
Structure Magazine, December 2009, by Bruce A. Burt, P.E.
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is rapidly gaining acceptance as the preferred method of communicating the design professional's intent to the owner and project builders... engineering firms who have fully committed to BIM-based work process have realized many benefits in the conversion.