Beyond the envelope: examining project management as a catalyst for higher-performance building design

Abstract

Improving energy efficiency in building design is increasingly vital as the global construction sector confronts rising energy demands and environmental challenges. In Sri Lanka, the early design phase often lacks strategic integration of energy considerations, limiting the effectiveness of sustainable outcomes. This research investigates how project management (PM) strategies (strategies and tools), influence energy-efficient decision-making of design teams during the pre-construction stage of building projects. The authors adopted a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative insights from seven semi-structured interviews with architects, engineers, and project managers, followed by quantitative data collected via a questionnaire administered to 42 professionals. The study explored the implementation and impact of PM approaches including Building Information Modelling (BIM), Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), Value Engineering (VE), and Early Contractor Involvement (ECI). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic coding to uncover trends and relationships. The findings revealed that BIM and VE are the most influential approaches in guiding sustainable design decisions, particularly when applied early in the project lifecycle. Success factors included early stakeholder collaboration, clearly defined energy goals, and performance-based planning. However, key barriers such as limited awareness, high upfront costs, and weak communication persist. The study recommends aligning PM practices with sustainability targets and enhancing stakeholder engagement to promote energy-efficient design in Sri Lankan construction projects.