A framework for the comprehensive management of LEED project documents: Lessons from construction professionals

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified buildings must meet additional green building requirements that are typically not required for non-LEED buildings. Despite progress made by the LEED program, there are still persistent challenges that reduce project success. In particular, serious concerns are raised regarding the complex documentation processes for obtaining the LEED credits for timely certification. The purpose of this paper was to examine the document management strategies that minimize LEED project challenges. Adopting a mixed-methods approach involving a case study and structured surveys, LEED document management practices being implemented by selected construction professionals in North Carolina are examined. Data analysis revealed that subcontractors posed the greatest challenge. The four key components of the comprehensive LEED document management strategy that emerged from data analysis were: Tracking of LEED data (37%); Allocation of LEED resources (23%); Assignment of LEED tasks (23%); and Mentoring of LEED subcontractors (17%). Sixty-seven percent of respondents concurred that subcontractor development programs should be offered by contractors at no cost to subcontractors. An effective strategy should minimize challenges associated with the processing and submission of LEED documentation. In effect, organizations should be better equipped to achieve targeted LEED credits in a more timely and cost-effective manner, leading to overall LEED project success.