New trend toward performance-based design in the construction industry

More than 10 years have passed since performance-based design was introduced into the construction industry along with a set of expectations. As the new concept is gradually adopted by Japanese design codes, the performance and quality of public works produced at minimum cost is becoming a major concern. This paper describes 1) the current situation of the Japanese construction industry; 2) new contracting and bidding systems employed in Japan that are oriented more toward performance and quality without compromising cost; and 3) results of investigation on performance- based design in European countries. A significant portion of the contents is based on the activities of the JSCE (Japan Society of Civil Engineers) Committee on 'Performance-based design of soil structures' chaired by Prof. Atsushi Iizuka of Kobe University. The Japanese construction market has become increasingly competitive. Designs that satisfy required performance and quality at minimum cost and risk are key factors for survival.