ZGF - Newforma

Case Study:
Improved Punch List Process Tightens
Architect/Contractor Coordination
The punch list stage of a project elicits a mixed reaction from architects.
On one hand, people like to see their plans made concrete (and fiber,
and wood, and steel, and glass, and paint). On the other hand, punch
list walkthroughs can be tedious. Worse, they create opportunities for
miscommunication. ZGF Associate Partner Alan Gerencer wanted to
execute the punch list process without mistakes or wasted motion.
Convey clearer information in less time
“We wanted to avoid data reentry whenever possible and speed up the
process of getting information back to the contractor,” Gerencer said.
“But we didn’t want to sacrifice capturing the rich information that makes
clear what our contractors need to fix.”
ZGF already used Newforma software for project information
management (PIM). When Newforma introduced a punch list tablet app
that integrates with its enterprise software, ZGF seized the opportunity.
Improve efficiency and mitigate risk
“I really love it!” Gerencer said. “Using the app on our tablets gave us a
way to take Newforma Project Center into the field and to bring field data
back to the office. It’s saving time and mitigating the risk of mishandled
items that may jeopardize quality. “We are constantly looking for ways to
better serve our clients,” Gerencer said. “Using this Newforma software
improves our efficiency and accuracy.”
“We are constantly looking
for ways to better serve our
clients. Using this Newforma
software improves our
efficiency and accuracy.”
Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects (ZGF) is
nationally recognized for architecture, urban
planning and interior design that enrich and
inspire people’s lives. The fi rm’s more than 400
awards include the Architecture Firm Award, the
highest accolade of the American Institute of
Architects.
Objectives
• Improve coordination with project team
members.
• Eliminate information reentry.
• Reduce punch list walk down time.
• Eliminate mistakes and omissions.
• Capture a punch list history.
• Hand over and close out projects faster.
Results
• Tighter coordination with contractors
• Elimination of data reentry
• Reduced walk-through time
• Faster delivery of the list to the contractor
• Improved clarity and accuracy
• Capture of detailed tracking logs
• Reduced exposure to risk
Clif Bar Headquaters, Emeryville, CA
-Alan Gerencer
Associate Partner
Case Study | ZGF
www.newforma.com
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Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Headquarters, Agoura Hills, CA
“Contractors will love the
app! After installing it, they
receive their punch list
assignments automatically”
Newforma® improves processes
throughout every project stage.
Shorten the time to project
closeout
The Newforma Punch List tablet app is a component of
Newforma enterprise software for project information
-Alan Gerencer
No reentering information
“The app automatically transfers field information to
management, or PIM. In addition to streamlining punch
our records in the office,” Gerencer said. “People can
list management in the office, Newforma PIM software
get right to work organizing and assigning items to the
makes it easy to manage RFIs, specifications, drawings,
responsible parties.” Contractors who do not use tablets
email and other information. The Newforma Punch
receive their punch lists on a spreadsheet or PDF. But
List tablet app creates a two-way flow of information
contractors with tablets can use the app to receive and
between this information in the office and punch list
manage punch lists. “Contractors will love the app,”
capture and verification in the field.
Gerencer said. “After installing it, they receive their
punch list assignments automatically. From there they
can review details, ask questions, check off items and
No fumbling with paper
provide us with updates as to where they stand in the
“The app preloads the project’s room list and some of
resolution process.”
the most common punch list comments,” Gerencer said.
“On site, people can get right to work on correcting
punch list items instead of fumbling with plans and
notebooks.
“If I’ve already entered the information in one place, I
can copy and paste it the next time I need it,” Gerencer
said. “This really speeds up data entry.”
Exchange information
seamlessly
“Newforma Punch List really allows us to act as team,
exchanging information seamlessly and effectively,”
Gerencer said. “Everyone gets a break from much of the
tedium of the process. Newforma punch list technology
will be a big hit.”
1750 Elm Street, 10th floor
Manchester, NH 03104 USA
(603) 625-6212, option 1
Case Study | ZGF
www.newforma.com
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