Column by: Ramon Jesus Gonzalez-Marquez, ARENA events + venues
Ever seen a state-of-the-art stadium or a stunning arena open late, bust its budget, or simply fail to meet the real needs of its users? The reasons are often complex, but a surprising number of these issues trace back to one critical period: the very beginning. Before a single line is drawn on a blueprint, the groundwork for success – or failure – is laid.
At Arena Events+Venues, we’ve seen firsthand that the most successful sport and entertainment venue projects aren’t just built well; they’re started well. This means embracing the power of an informed client and a truly collaborative briefing process.
In the rush to get projects off the ground, it’s tempting to fast-track the initial strategic thinking and briefing stages. This is a false economy. The RIBA Plan of Work clearly outlines Stage 0 (Strategic Definition) and Stage 1 (Preparation & Briefing) as foundational.
– Stage 0 is about asking “Why?”: What is the core business case? What are the strategic objectives? What are the real client requirements and risks?
– Stage 1 is about defining “What?”: This translates the “why” into a detailed Project Brief, undertakes feasibility studies, establishes the budget, and assembles the initial team structure.
Skipping or superficially addressing these phases is a primary driver of scope creep, budget blowouts, and projects that ultimately don’t deliver on their strategic promise.
Read the full article clearly from ISSUE 42 below: