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This question was understanding the diagram- and i am not sure I understand how to read it correctly. even if I got the nest questions right ( Q-9). Can you explain what the right way reading the order? how does it split and how does the 1-8 numbers on the diagram help to go by order in the case of “splits”- activities that happen simultaneously or parallel to others.
@sevanb Great question! The critical path is the longest sequence of dependent tasks that are required to complete a project. You read the diagram from left to right following the milestone numbers in chronological order. A solid line indicates that the preceding task must be completed before the subsequent task, while a dotted line indicates that the subsequent task is independent of the preceding task. In this case study, both Contact AHJ for Permit Process and Consultant Kick-Off are dependent on Code Analysis and may occur simultaneously, but are not part of the critical path for Client Review. This essentially means that any delays in either of those two tasks will not directly impact Client Review from being done.
Check out PjM Video: Design Schedules for more about critical path and other scheduling methods. Also review PjM Flashcard: Critical Path.
Hope this helps!
Kiara Galicinao, AIA, NCARB
Product Coordinator Black Spectacles
Also I would like to go over the different submittals like to AHJ and etc. When are each submitted? I am not quite sure if the AHJ needs to be at the CD level, or SD/DD level. This is quite a basic one. And I feel i am not quite on it 100%. Can you refer me to the correct area to go over it again. I feel it is in many places throughout the course. PcM and more. I am also looking for where to go over the different types of local/ zoning ordiences/ building codes. What is National/ local/ state?
@sevanb AHJ involvement happens throughout, but the formal building permit submission is typically at the CD phase. Here is a general overview of a typical process:
SD/DD: Early AHJ touchpoints as needed — zoning/planning checks, pre-app meetings, conceptual code approach, entitlements (variance/conditional use), design review/historic boards.
CD: Primary AHJ submission = the permit set for plan check (life safety, structural, energy, accessibility, etc.).
CA: AHJ returns for inspections and Certificate of Occupancy, plus any deferred submittals.
Here is an overview of code hierarchy:
National/model codes (IBC, IECC, etc.) aren’t law until adopted.
State adopts + amends model codes.
Local adopts + may amend further (if allowed) and sets zoning ordinances (use, setbacks, height, FAR, parking).
Here is an easy way to remember this:
Zoning = what/where you can build.
Building code = how you build it safely.
We cover codes and regulations in several different areas of our courses, due to the fact that they are relevant to many parts of the design process. Specifically these videos: PjM Objective 4.4 and 5.1, PA Section 2, PPD Section 2, PDD Section 4.
We actually have a few Real-World Practice exercises in the PA division that dive deeper into these types of code questions you have. Check out the ones titled Applying IBC and Local Codes During Development and Applying Accessibility Standards. Try not to get too caught up in the nitty gritty of all the different codes and ordinances, as they vary by jurisdiction. Just know that the ARE will specify which ones apply to the given scenario if needed.
Kiara Galicinao, AIA, NCARB
Product Coordinator Black Spectacles
Developing a Work Plan [Exercise A]
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