The course will introduce the building code structure, and its objective-based application. It will also discuss the relationship between the acceptable solutions and objective-based intents assigned to those provisions. The course will build an appreciation and understanding of code intent, objective and functional statements, and their role in producing alternative solutions that demonstrate the same level of performance as prescriptive acceptable solutions.

Key concepts and terms such as ‘acceptable solutions’, ‘alternative solutions’, ‘performance’, ‘intent’ and ‘functional statements’ will be introduced, defined, and discussed. The Building Science that supports Code creation will also be reviewed to provide a deeper understanding on how Code provisions have evolved over time. A look at the ‘pillars of design’ will round out participant understanding on how and where design intent and code intent intersect. Towards the end of the course, the required forms for reviewing alternative solutions will be covered and a real-world alternative solution proposal will also be examined to understand the process required to evaluate and determine whether the alternative solution should be accepted.

‍