The Coordination Conversation

In this episode of The Coordination Conversation, Andy Smith sits down with Brian Taylor, Director of Low Voltage at Jordan & Skala Engineers, to break down one of the most misunderstood life-safety systems in building design: Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (ERRC).ERRC is often referred to by many names (public safety DAS, two-way radio systems, emergency radio enhancement) but the requirements, enforcement, and implications can vary widely by jurisdiction. In this conversation, we cut through the confusion to explain what ERRC actually is, when it’s required, how codes intersect, and how early planning can prevent costly surprises at the end of a project.You’ll learn:• What ERRC is and why it exists as a life-safety system• The difference between ERRC, public safety DAS, and cellular DAS• When ERRC is required versus performance-tested• How IFC, NFPA 72, and NFPA 1221/1225 work together• Why backbone survivability drives cost and coordination challenges• Our three ERRC service approaches• How early coordination can avoid retrofits, delays, and budget overrunsChapters00:00 – Introduction00:29 – What Is ERRC & Why It Exists04:39 – ERRC vs. DAS vs. Cellular DAS06:45 – Is ERRC Required in Every Building?11:28 – How Codes Intersect (IFC, NFPA 72, NFPA 1221/1225)14:32 – Backbone Survivability & Cost Impacts19:46 – ERRC Design Options: Advisory, Infrastructure, Full Design28:34 – Planning Ahead to Avoid Late-Stage Surprises________________________________________DisclaimerThe views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates.All content is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and information discussed may not apply to your specific circumstances.Viewers should consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions. Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for actions taken based on this content.This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without express written permission.🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at [email protected]. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation

In Episode 3 of The Coordination Conversation, Francesca Baker (Project Manager) joins Tom Matzen (BIM Manager) to unpack what really changes when teams move from AutoCAD to Revit. We cover time management vs. detail, why a BIM kickoff is non-negotiable, how to balance live models with publish & consume, the debate on fully populated models, and what’s next with AI in BIM. If you manage MEP projects—or collaborate with architects and structural—this one’s packed with practical takeaways for cleaner drawings, fewer surprises, and on-time deliverables.You’ll learn:The biggest PM shifts moving from CAD to Revit (schedules, coordination, and expectations)How to run BIM kickoffs that prevent last-minute scramblesWhen to freeze a live model so CDs stay clean and consistentPros/cons of fully populated models and phased populationWhat JSE’s BIM team is updating (families, tools) to boost model efficiencyWhere AI can help (LLMs, automation, routing) and what’s realistic—now vs. nextChapters00:00 – Introduction01:38– Project Management in the BIM Era05:44 – BIM Kickoff Meetings & Why They Matter11:10 – Fully-Populated Models16:53 – Favorite Revit Project Experience & What Went Well20:15 – Live Models 22:46 – What’s JSE’s Updating & AI in BIMAbout Jordan & Skala Engineers (JSE)We’re a national consulting engineering firm delivering MEP Engineering, Sustainability, and Low Voltage—three consultants under one roof—to streamline coordination and outcomes for our clients.If this episode helped, like, subscribe, and share with your AEC team. -------------------Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates.All content provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and what is discussed in this video may not apply to your specific circumstances.Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Viewers should always consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions.Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without the express written permission of JSE.🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at [email protected]. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation

In this episode, we unpack the evolving landscape of green building programs from ENERGY STAR and NGBS to LEED and beyond. As federal sustainability policies shift, we dive into the real-world incentives, verification requirements, and performance standards that still make green certifications a smart investment.But this isn’t just about checklists. We explore how sustainability ties directly into the core of engineering, from HVAC system design and envelope performance to long-term energy use and operational cost savings. Whether you're designing to meet code, qualify for incentives, or simply create a better building, the case for smart, efficient systems has never been stronger.Contents of this Video00:00 - Introduction00:45 - Changes in Green Programs03:21 - NGBS (National Green Building Standard) Program05:49 - NGBS vs. ENERGY STAR12:26 - LEED for Multi-Family, Core & Shell & Warehouses16:12 - State/Jurisdictional Requirements & Incentives19:31 - Energy Modeling27:23 - Bespoke Programs30:11 - Existing Building ProgramsSubscribe for more insights from the front lines of Sustainability, MEP Engineering, Low Voltage Design.----------Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates.All content provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and what is discussed in this video may not apply to your specific circumstances.Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Viewers should always consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions.Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without the express written permission of JSE.🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at [email protected]. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation

MEP Industry Disruptors | Ep. 1 | The Coordination Conversation with Jordan & Skala EngineersThe mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering world is undergoing rapid change—and if you’re in the building industry, you need to be ready.In this first episode of The Coordination Conversation by Jordan & Skala Engineers, we break down the most critical disruptors shaping MEP today.Contents of this podcast:00:00 - Intro01:30 - A2L Transitions11:30 - 2021 Codes16:50 - Tariff Impacts18:45 - Construction Administration Changes----------A2L Refrigerant TransitionDiscussion on the latest EPA regulations, compliance deadlines, and how design teams are navigating the shift from R-410A to low-GWP A2L refrigerants—especially in VRF systems.2021 Energy Code OverhaulThe new IECC update is reshaping how teams approach energy modeling, lighting, and HVAC strategies. Learn how we've leverage the code for compliance and cost savings.Construction Administration TrendsWith tighter timelines and more RFIs, construction admin has changed. We explore the rise of submittal parties and how design teams can adapt without compromising quality.Why It Matters:These changes aren't just technical—they affect cost, coordination, compliance, and overall project success. Our experts share strategies to stay ahead of the curve.Subscribe for more insights from the front lines of MEP engineering.----------Disclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of any video partners or affiliates.All content provided is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice for any specific project, site, or situation. Project requirements, conditions, and regulations vary, and what is discussed in this video may not apply to your specific circumstances.Any reliance you place on this information is strictly at your own risk. Viewers should always consult with a qualified professional before making project-related decisions.Jordan & Skala Engineers assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content or for any actions taken based on the information provided.This content is the intellectual property of Jordan & Skala Engineers and may not be reproduced, redistributed, or used by any third party without the express written permission of JSE.🎙️ The Coordination Conversation is a podcast by Jordan & Skala Engineers. We’ve been sharing our insight with the A/E/C industry since 1953—and now we’re putting it on the mic. Catch every episode for expert takes on MEP engineering, sustainability, BIM, and low-voltage systems. ▶️ Watch this episode on YouTube: youtube.com/@jordanskalaengineers467 🔗 Subscribe for more episodes and industry insights. 📩 Interested in partnering or sponsoring? Email us at [email protected]. #MEPEngineering #AECIndustry #Sustainability #BIM #LowVoltage #TheCoordinationConversation