We got the opportunity to visit the Skender Chicago office last week where we met with Mark Skender and Tim Swanson. Skender, previously known as Skender Construction, is a vertically integrated Design-Build firm with manufacturing capabilities. They believe in an integrated approach in design and construction, and the design of their office space was a reflection of this. Their Chicago office has about 160 employees from different areas of construction including designers, engineers, project managers etc. For 10 years in a row, it has been voted as the best company to work for.
Skender is transforming the construction industry with SkenderLean approach. The construction industry is fragmented which this often leads to dysfunction and waste. By adapting the Lean approach to projects, they are able to unify the building process and make projects which are less time-consuming, sustainable, less risky, more consistent and more efficient. This optimized process also leads to a reduction in overall cost, and fewer mistakes. Lean is the core of their business model which makes them unique. They are able to increase customer value while minimizing waste. While touring their office we saw that there were many discussion spaces which, in my opinion, fosters interdisciplinary communication and leads to innovation. The collaborative approach also helps to demolish the silos between design and construction.
In 2012, Skender laid grounds for the Skender Foundation, whose mission is to "Provide access to resources and relationships that help people make good life decisions through greater education and wellness". Each year they host a fundraising event in downtown Chicago and connect businesses and organizations who are looking to bring about a positive change. I was touched by the fact that they not only raise money, but also invest their own time, money and ideas to sustain their mission of community education and wellness.
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Image source: http://www.chicagotribune.com/bluesky/series/office-tours/ct-bsi-skender-construction-photos-20170922-photogallery.html
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