Those involved in the commercial real estate, engineering or construction industries are likely familiar with the acronym “MEP,” which stands for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and refers to the “systems” of a building. But, many don't know much more than this, or why MEP is a critical component of building design. When we hear the term “MEP,” it could be referring to any number of mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems throughout a building structure: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, communications, IT, fire protection, potable water, waste water, and utilities. And, it can be referring to these systems at various stages, including initial design, installation, system operation and maintenance, and repairs/upgrades. While MEP is often the most underappreciated part of building design, it is often the most critical part of successful building planning and performance. So, what are the critical 3 steps to consider to ensure the MEP of a building doesn't negatively affect the development, operation or value? 1-Designing for Efficiency For example, when master planning a facility it pays to design forward-looking models using Building Information Model (BIM) software that allows for integrated, flexible and most importantly upgradable MEP frameworks. This ensures the systems of a building built today are prepared for the advancements in efficiency and sustainability of tomorrow. 2-Optimizing for Performance For example, Energy modeling can be a very worthwhile exercise. A building energy model identify opportunities to improve the energy efficiency of building systems, and will consider the needs and behaviors of the occupants. Simple recommended measures may include motion activated lighting, or automated heating and cooling systems. 3-Upgrading for Improvement MEP, easy as 123 About Chris Morris Chris Morris is one of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc.'s leading consulting engineers. With more than 35 years experience working across all aspects of the engineering process - from contracts to design to project close-out - Chris expertly translates client requirements into efficient and cost-effective building engineering and sustainability solutions. Those involved in the commercial real estate, engineering or construction industries are likely familiar with the acronym “MEP,” which stands for mechanical, electrical, plumbing and refers to the “systems” of a building. But, many don't know much more than this, or why MEP is a critical component of building design. When we hear the term “MEP,” it could be referring to any number of mechanical, electrical or plumbing systems throughout a building structure: heating, ventilation, air conditioning, electrical, communications, IT, fire protection, potable water, waste water, and utilities. And, it can be referring to these systems at various stages, including initial design, installation, system operation and maintenance, and repairs/upgrades. While MEP is often the most underappreciated part of building design, it is often the most critical part of successful building planning and performance. So, what are the critical 3 steps to consider to ensure the MEP of a building doesn't negatively affect the development, operation or value? 1-Designing for Efficiency For example, when master planning a facility it pays to design forward-looking models using Building Information Model (BIM) software that allows for integrated, flexible and most importantly upgradable MEP frameworks. This ensures the systems of a building built today are prepared for the advancements in efficiency and sustainability of tomorrow. 2-Optimizing for Performance For example, Energy modeling can be a very worthwhile exercise. A building energy model identify opportunities to improve the energy efficiency of building systems, and will consider the needs and behaviors of the occupants. Simple recommended measures may include motion activated lighting, or automated heating and cooling systems. 3-Upgrading for Improvement MEP, easy as 123 About Chris Morris Chris Morris is one of Partner Engineering and Science, Inc.'s leading consulting engineers. With more than 35 years experience working across all aspects of the engineering process - from contracts to design to project close-out - Chris expertly translates client requirements into efficient and cost-effective building engineering and sustainability solutions.