In 2023, D4S partnered with SPS Technology (SPST), to help drive product innovation and streamline their design and manufacturing processes. SPST were looking for more than just a structural engineer, they wanted a long-term partner who could also handle construction modelling and detailing. They chose D4S for our integrated approach that combines engineering and detailing into one seamless service. But just as importantly, we share a common belief: early collaboration and smart decisive decision-making are key to the success of any project. We interviewed SPST CEO David Glover, to discuss the value of ongoing design team partnerships, earlier decision making on project delivery and how we can be more efficient as an industry.

About SPS Technology The unique Sandwich Plate System (SPS) was invented at Carleton University in Canada. What began with the investigation of novel products to mitigate the damage of ice floes on offshore assets in the Arctic, has evolved into a solution that addresses market problems with stadiums and arenas, bridges and more, all over the world. The system is comprised of two metal plates, bonded by Elastocore, with qualities, such as safety, durability and strength, that more traditional construction materials don’t possess. These traits, along with speed of manufacture and installation, has positioned the product as a leader in adaptive reuse projects, with capabilites to extend the lives of existing vessels, assets, stadia and civil infrastructure.

D4S: Collaboration over transaction – that’s a huge focus for us here at D4S. How do you feel about that approach?

David Glover (DG) – Our ethos is the same. We want the consistency and reliability of a partner who engages and challenges us and thinks innovatively about how SPS can be used. We welcome creative thinking from all corners. We didn’t want to ‘just outsource Tekla and engineering tasks’ we wanted a partner with whom to develop a long-term working relationship and to improve and systemise the delivery of SPS. It’s important to us that our partners’ contributions and ideas are recognised. As engineers, D4S are well-placed to contribute to the ongoing exploration of the material.David Glover, CEO, SPS Technology

Why do you think having that collaborative, partnership style is so important for success?

DG – We’re a small company doing a lot of work around the globe and spend a lot of time exploring the usefulness of SPS, solving challenges. We knew we needed to streamline our design and manufacturing processes as, while we make a single composite, every project is customised to specific conditions. It helps to have people we trust working alongside us who are exploring the boundaries of the computing and engineering tools to deliver with accuracy and efficiency.(One of our first collaborations: the ‘John Glaser Arena’ at La Salle University, Philadelphia. The arena, which hosted the first home game for the La Salle Men’s Basketball team, on 4 November 2024, underwent a total renovation, incorporating a 360-degree with 3000+ seats. Image credit: La Salle University and SPS Technology)    

What value does fully-coordinating the design to a manufacture level of detail, early on in the process, bring to your clients?

DG – This question could be a thesis on its own! We’re at the forefront of working this way: clients, design teams and construction teams need time to acclimate themselves to a process where the decision-making needs to be decisive early on. But the time and labour savings on site are very real, and once they’ve seen SPS being installed, they’re converted. We’re always looking to optimise designs and make our processes more efficient. With a custom, prefabricated product like SPS, we depend on early engagement – people who understand the need to get the detail right at the start, rather than the end, of the process.  

In your opinion, how can we make the industry more efficient?

DG – The detailed design phase is critical. Decisions need to be taken and schedules met. Some teams are more confident and more certain than others. The answer lies in bringing the entire team, right through to the installers, into fully designing and detailing in the virtual environment rather than assuming problems will be solved on site, at the end.   We really look forward to our continued work with SPST, whilst collectively playing our part in streamlining the way we construct, to improve outcomes for society, our clients and the environment. Get in touch to learn more about our approach to programme delivery.