"To present a project design [...] has been shown on several occasions to be a powerful tool which helps to create a sense of common purpose and establish mutual respect between the agency and the affected population and mobilises participants for project implementation."
"Throughout the entire assessment process, you have probably raised expectations: people will have attended focus groups, seen you in meetings with their leaders, seen you walk across fields and sit in the village square. Your mere presence will have created expectations among the population and other organisations working in the area."
"It is important to make sure that participants (including the aid organisation) who were involved in the design phase and made a commitment to participate in the project are fully aware of what this implies!"
Quotes from Groupe URD, Participation Handbook for humanitarian field workers. ALNAP, 2009.
Monday 9th to Wednesday 11th of July:
Presentation of the propositions
On Monday I presented to the Board and teachers my propositions of design for the first phase of construction of the new Humane School, the kindergarten (see pictures of the model in this article) and the kitchen and dining hall (see pictures and description in this article).
Just as an "ordinary" client meeting, I first presented the models and plans and explained how the design of those building meet the program´s needs and relate to the different principles and criteria that we have been assessing and discussing during those last weeks: simplicity of construction, "creative" and versatile spaces, rain-catching roof, natural light and ventilation, protection from sun and rain, high ceilings, etc.
I then opened up the meeting for questions, comments and ideas handing out a few copies of the printed layouts and pen and encouraging the participants to draw on it.
The design was largely accepted and well appreciated by everyone. By projecting ourselves in the daily routine of the future users of the buildings (toddlers, teachers, cooks, pupils etc) the discussion led to some minor adjustments. We also found out ways to reduce the surface and simplify the shapes without loosing the feeling of spacious non-square rooms.
Risk Analysis and Risk Management
Risk analysis is a process and a tool for construction projects. Identifying the uncertainties and the potential risks of a project (Risk Analysis) and figuring out how we can avoid or reduce those risks (Risk Management) increases the likelihood of successful completion of a project.
I felt a bit sad to conclude my assessment and pre-design trip with a Risk Analysis workshop, having to identify and list everything that could go wrong before, during and after the construction... but it is unfortunately a reality that we must face if we wish this project to success, as being aware of those risks will help us to better solve the problems when or if they occur.
Thanks to a brainstorming meeting, we carried out together a Qualitative Risk Analysis (as opposite to a Quantitative Risk Analysis that uses numbers, measurable data and computer simulations) by identifying and describing potential risks and subjectively assessing their probability of occurrence and their impact on the project. We then discussed and formulated management responses; in other words we tried to find solutions to deal with those potential problems. The management responses can either develop a plan to deal with the problem if it occurs or aim to avoid or reduce the risks at its source. Some other times the identified risk is solely based on uncertainty and the immediate management response is to carry out further investigations on the topic.
We identified 14 risks related to 3 different periods: Before construction, During construction and After construction. We formulated comprehensive management responses for each of those risks, being aware that the responses sometimes can create new risks.
This Risk Analysis and Risk Management grid is meant to be revised, updated and completed throughout the design and construction process. This is why it is not only a tool but it is considered as a process which enables the analysis and management of the risks associated with the project.
For more information, find here a very helpful document about Project Risk Analysis & Management.
Finalising the project documents and handing over the material
After giving my goodbyes to the wonderful teachers and thanking them for their involvement and for making themselves available to my silly and brain stimulating activities, I left the models and plan layouts in the teachers' room and gathered all the produced material (pictures from the workshops, digitalised outcomes and documentation such as the timeline, project description, on-going budget file and risk analysis) and handed it over to Sam and Juliet.
Sam is made responsible for carrying out tender inquiries for the costs of construction materials, a task that he will perform with the help of a small team of his choice. I myself will update the budget file according to his findings.
Sam and Aquinas will investigate the procedures and costs of building permit and find trustworthy advisers.
Juliet continues to have contact with the potential funding organisation to develop a strategy for the purchase of a plot of land, first necessary step for the future development of The Humane School.
Acknowledgements
I would like to thank Asante architecture and design for entrusting me with the assignment of designing the new Humane School in Kenya. Thank you to Arkitekter utan gränser (ASF-Sweden) for financing this assessment trip through your medlemsfond program, and to Anja Varis and her group from Förening Sofia for their collaboration and continual support.
A big thank you and lots of love to Juliet, Sam and their family for hosting me, showing me around and pleasing me with delicious food. I am much looking forward to a continued collaboration and friendship.
Last but not least, thank you Violet, the other Board members and all the teachers and staff members, as well as to the parents and children. By participating to the workshops and activities, you contributed with your bodies, brains and feelings to the participatory assessment and design process of the Humane School project.
I have spent the last few weeks working with what I love, testing and implementing participatory assessment and design methods to enable a vulnerable community to access architectural services and support in project management. Contributing to the design of the locally initiated holistic project of the Humane School fills me with joy and hopes!
ASANTE SANA!