HISTORIC STRUCTURE REPORTS, member query regarding databases as a component of HSRs Options

[rsaarnio]

We are commissioning a comprehensive Historic Structure Report. Our consulting architects have responded to our RFP stipulating the inclusion of a master database into which the Existing Conditions studies and prioritized repairs are entered, with cost-estimating data incorporated. Based on their work producing databases for other HSR clients, our consultants are proposing a FileMaker Pro software platform.

QUERY: My parent organization is challenging why standard off-the-shelf Facilities Management software is not being employed, and they are further questioning the business rationale of having a customized database be part of the HSR.

I need to have anyone’s thoughts regarding this matter - - and particularly helpful would be the names(s) of other organizations, historic sites, or house museums who have used databases as component elements of their Historic Structure Reports.

Many thanks!

ROBERT SAARNIO (rsaarnio@ddcf.org / 808-792-5502)
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
SHANGRI LA, DORIS DUKE FOUNDATION FOR ISLAMIC ART
HONOLULU, HAWAII

[ityler]

We are commissioning a comprehensive Historic Structure Report. Our consulting architects have responded to our RFP stipulating the inclusion of a master database into which the Existing Conditions studies and prioritized repairs are entered, with cost-estimating data incorporated. Based on their work producing databases for other HSR clients, our consultants are proposing a FileMaker Pro software platform.

QUERY: My parent organization is challenging why standard off-the-shelf Facilities Management software is not being employed, and they are further questioning the business rationale of having a customized database be part of the HSR.

I need to have anyone’s thoughts regarding this matter - - and particularly helpful would be the names(s) of other organizations, historic sites, or house museums who have used databases as component elements of their Historic Structure Reports.

Many thanks!

ROBERT SAARNIO (rsaarnio@ddcf.org / 808-792-5502)
ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR
SHANGRI LA, DORIS DUKE FOUNDATION FOR ISLAMIC ART
HONOLULU, HAWAII

Rob:

QEA has done dozens of HSRs, and never have we included a database as you describe. This has not been requested by our clients, nor have we volunteered it. We have used easy spreadsheet programs to track chronological change and to complete cost estimating tasks, but these have not been combined in a data base. We are beginning to use a new program called Revit that combines drawing capabilities with building modeling and budgeting, but this is still too new to say how effective it will be, or how easy it will be to use. We have not considered Revit for HSRs, however, preferring a more traditional approach to documenting the structures and sites. I hope that helps...

Ilene