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T.E.A.R™
T.E.A.R.
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Origin of T.E.A.R.™
By the 1900s, the ancient Master Builder was largely extinct, to the great detriment of society. In their place were the results of this bifurcation: two inventions of the modern age. (1) The architect, responsible for design only, but having no genuine knowledge about how a building is actually built (well, some do); and (2) the contractor, responsible for construction only, but having no genuine knowledge about design. For thousands of years before this, design and construction were understood as being united in the same person and work. But the architect-contractor system did away with all this, ushering into society a host of problems.
Project delivery methods are continually added and modified (i.e., design build, integrated delivery, construction management), all indirectly aiming to achieve the success of the Master Builder. Unfortunately, many projects are delivered by a general contractor, and that has eliminated the functions, procedures, and teamwork that had made the union of the architect/builder (the ultimate collaboration) succeed. Thus, T.E.A.R.™ (Technical Evaluation Analysis and Recommendation) was developed.
At the core of T.E.A.R.™ is a continuous and thorough assessment of every project element, covering materials, methods, processes, cost analysis, detail scrutiny, coordination, logistics, and more. It applies to all aspects of the preconstruction phase, emphasizing attention to detail and alignment with project goals.
This methodology is more than a set of guidelines; it represents a mindset that encourages careful consideration and expert involvement at every stage.
T.E.A.R™
Origin
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Definition
Many specialty and fabricated items require a high level of detailing and engineering to accurately reflect the design intent and ensure it is maintained throughout the process. In some cases, it may seem redundant for the designer to develop the design to a level suitable for direct fabrication. However, when the fabricator and their detailer are involved early in the process, it helps avoid duplication of efforts, streamlines the detailing phase, and accelerates fabrication timelines.
Case Study
On this project, many of the finer details are intended to be finalized during the shop drawing and engineering phase. Fully detailing certain elements at the outset—and then repeating that process during coordination—would be both duplicative and inefficient.
To streamline the workflow, we are working directly with subcontractors and engineers to develop constructible details early, allowing us to get a head start on shop drawings. This approach is particularly beneficial given the fast-track nature of the project, where the subcontractors will ultimately be responsible for the means and methods. By implementing Design Assist, we assume more of the detailing responsibility as the builder, which helps alleviate the need for the architect to produce redundant design documentation.
T.E.A.R™
Design Assist
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Definition
The review of drawings—whether for pricing, shop drawings, or final construction documents— requires thorough and thoughtful examination to ensure sufficient detail and clarity is provided. This includes identifying whether key elements are fully or partially developed and assessing the feasibility of the proposed solutions.
If there appear to be alternative approaches, methods, or means of construction, they should be marked up and brought forward for discussion with the Design Team. The goal is to confirm that the aesthetic and design intent, as envisioned by the Architect, is maintained, while also ensuring that the construction is practical, efficient, and buildable. This process often involves multiple rounds of collaboration between the design and construction teams. Through these iterative reviews and redlines, both parties can align on a solution that incorporates best practices and supports successful project delivery.
Case Study
The Architect is responsible for providing the design and/or design intent of a project or specific element. Unlike the traditional Master Builder, who both designed and executed the work, today’s Builder is tasked with determining how best to execute the design.
There are often multiple ways to construct a given design element. It is the Builder’s responsibility to evaluate and select the most efficient and feasible approach—considering factors such as cost, schedule, safety, and constructability. The chosen method must be clearly defined and carefully planned. The Builder assumes full responsibility for the execution of the work and is liable for any issues that arise from a failure to implement the selected means and methods properly.
T.E.A.R™
Drawing Review
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Definition
Constructability is a key consideration during both the preconstruction and construction phases. It involves analyzing how a project can be built efficiently, aiming to minimize potential issues that could lead to delays or cost increases. This includes evaluating design, materials, methods, and site conditions to ensure practicality and reduce risks. The goal is to identify and resolve challenges early in the project lifecycle, preventing complications down the line. Constructability reviews focus on examining design documents with attention to site logistics, material selection, and construction sequencing.
Case Study
As with most construction elements, the Architect and Design team know the desired aesthetic, yet are not as concerned about what it takes to achieve it. It falls on the builder to come up with a buildable methodology. In this instance, the glass on the façade was a specialty item, yet there was a strong desire for what was, or was not, viewed beyond and how it was connected. We proposed many alternate methods to provide support and backup to allow the architectural appearance to meet the criteria while using nonstandard connections that were visibly acceptable.
T.E.A.R™
Constructability
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Definition
The Architect is responsible for providing the design and/or design intent of a project or specific element. Unlike the traditional Master Builder, who both designed and executed the work, today’s Builder is tasked with determining how best to execute the design.
There are often multiple ways to construct a given design element. It is the Builder’s responsibility to evaluate and select the most efficient and feasible approach—considering factors such as cost, schedule, safety, and constructability.
The chosen method must be clearly defined and carefully planned. The Builder assumes full responsibility for the execution of the work and is liable for any issues that arise from a failure to implement the selected means and methods properly.
Case Study
This drawing represents a significant departure from the project’s original construction methodology. By introducing a more efficient approach—centered around the expedited use of modular panels and an alternative system for protection and stabilization—we were able to streamline the build process. This adjustment not only improved overall efficiency but also accelerated the schedule, ultimately saving the project approximately four months.
T.E.A.R™
Means And Methods
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Definition
The use of probes, or exploratory work, is critical when existing conditions are concealed, as they help identify unforeseen issues that could lead to delays or redesigns. On an occupied building project, simply highlighting connection points on drawings underestimated the true scope of investigation required. The number of necessary probes revealed significant constructability challenges, prompting a redesign and reevaluation of connection methods.
Probes are a valuable investment in projects involving existing structures, helping to avoid costly surprises. Allocating time and budget for this work early on is essential to ensuring a smooth and efficient construction process.
Case Study
For this project, working within and around existing structures made early investigative work essential to uncover hidden conditions and verify connection points. We emphasized the importance of performing probes to gain clarity on what lay behind finished surfaces— particularly in areas where new construction would tie into existing elements. In this case, it was necessary to clearly communicate to the client the potential risks of not conducting probes, including unforeseen conflicts and disruptions. Ultimately, we helped the client understand how this investigative work would minimize the impact on the occupied interior space and support a smoother construction process.
T.E.A.R™
Probes
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Definition
In construction, collaboration involves all project stakeholders—consultants, contractors, subcontractors, and site managers—working together toward a shared goal. It relies on effective communication, transparency, and access to critical information such as plans, objectives, and resources. A collaborative approach fosters openness, aligns teams around a common purpose, and ensures that everyone remains informed and engaged throughout the project. This integration of diverse expertise and ongoing communication is essential for achieving project success and addressing challenges efficiently.
Case Study
While “collaboration” is often used broadly to describe working together toward a shared goal, in this instance it took the form of a highly detailed and deliberate process. Our team meticulously reviewed over 200 pages of construction documents, analyzing each detail with precision. We then sat down with the architect to review every comment, discussing the rationale, pros and cons, and implications of our recommendations. Through this dialogue, we jointly determined the most effective and practical approach for each project element. This level of collaboration ensured that every decision was informed, intentional, and aligned with the overall project goals.
T.E.A.R™
Collaboration
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Phasing & Logistics
Logistics involves the planning, implementation, and management of the efficient flow and storage of resources—such as materials, equipment, and personnel—throughout a construction site. This includes developing a comprehensive plan that addresses entry and exit points, storage areas, safe zones, and worker routing to ensure seamless site operations. While construction plans may be ambitious, their success depends on practical, achievable execution. Realistic logistics planning, paired with effective sequencing, is essential for delivering projects on time and within budget. Construction sequencing—or phasing—is the strategic organization of tasks to maximize efficiency across schedule, budget, and resource allocation. Construction sequencing, or phasing, is the strategic organization of tasks to optimize resources, timelines, budgets, and safety. It breaks a project into manageable phases and schedules work in a logical order to ensure efficient execution. A well-planned sequence serves as a blueprint for project delivery, outlining methods and timelines. In renovation or expansion projects, phased construction allows operations to continue during construction. The goals include maximizing efficiency, managing the flow of personnel and materials, minimizing environmental impact, and addressing spatial constraints before work begins.
Case Study
In this instance, additional bracing was required, which necessitated shoring the existing steel to maintain structural stability throughout the process. To support this effort, we developed and submitted a phased sequencing plan to the design team. This plan detailed the step-by-step approach for safely accessing the area, removing the existing steel, and installing the new structural components. By proactively coordinating the sequence, we ensured that both safety and structural integrity were maintained throughout the operation.
T.E.A.R™
Phasing & Logistics
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Definition
Whether driven by creativity, cleverness, or a combination of both, the building process is always enhanced by smart, innovative thinking. From logistical planning to resourceful problem- solving, approaching tasks with ingenuity can significantly improve efficiency and outcomes. Thinking outside the box not only helps overcome challenges but also plays a critical role in achieving the project’s intended results with precision and effectiveness.
Case Study
At Richter+Ratner, we’re deeply committed to never defaulting to “no”—instead, we think creatively to develop solutions that are both feasible and cost-effective. For this particular project, we explored an unconventional approach by procuring a contract to have a small building fabricated overseas and shipped directly to the site. The result was remarkable: significant savings in both time and cost. This strategy gave us the flexibility to pursue a nontraditional method that was uniquely suited to the character and requirements of this gem of a building.
T.E.A.R™
Ingenuity
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Definition
Value engineering is a systematic and organized approach aimed at achieving the necessary functions of a project at the lowest possible cost—without compromising quality or performance.
It encourages the thoughtful substitution of materials and methods with more cost-effective alternatives, focusing on the function of each component rather than its physical characteristics. Also referred to as value analysis, value engineering is often mistakenly equated with “design elimination.” However, true value engineering preserves the original design intent by identifying solutions that use equal or superior materials and methods to achieve the desired outcome.
Case Study
In this project, we faced the unique challenge of installing reveals on every horizontal and vertical surface. The issue we encountered was that standard reveal cannot bend at an angle on a curve without “Kinking,” which ruled out the use of anything standard reveal.
We used multiple mock-ups and materials such as plaster, foam, GFRG, and Sheetrock to balance the desired aesthetics, price, and to achieve crisp reveals. We then left the accepted sample as the guideline for installation quality acceptance.
T.E.A.R™
Value Engineering
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