On Demand Webinar: Strong Foundations: Building Understanding Through Lab Programming
Register for this free on-demand webinar from Lab Design to learn practical strategies for translating scientific workflows into effective laboratory programming and design decisions that support safety, functionality, and long-term operational success.
Originally presented at the 2026 Lab Design Conference in Orlando, FL
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Watch on demand
Just as scientists and lab users may need support reading construction documents and understanding facility design processes, architects and designers often need help understanding the scientific processes housed within the laboratories they design. Design professionals can be unfamiliar with, or even overwhelmed by, the inner workings of the science that drives these environments. Lab planners and architects have a critical responsibility to translate user needs through the programming and planning process. Key factors informing facility design must be identified, clarified, and communicated effectively to the broader design team.
But where to start? The scope and complexity of laboratory programming needs vary widely, influenced by an equally diverse set of variables. Knowing how to uncover the right information, without necessarily knowing exactly what to ask at the outset, can be a challenge. A thorough, well-planned programming phase is essential to achieving successful and meaningful design outcomes.
This session focuses on the dialogue and engagement that occur well before any design concepts emerge. It will share practical tips for facilitating well-framed, productive discussions with end users and demonstrate how curious, informed questioning forms the foundation of project success. Through effective data collection and cataloging, lab planners and architects can equip the broader design team with a clear, foundational understanding of the science supported within the laboratory environment and identify the key programmatic factors that guide design decisions.
Learning objectives:
Identify the basic functions of several common laboratory research methods in order to build a stronger foundational understanding of the overall program.
Organize laboratory programming inputs in ways that can be validated with lab users and facility managers, support early design decision-making, and enable meaningful engagement from the full design team throughout the project lifecycle.
Evaluate health, safety, and welfare implications of laboratory research activities—including chemical, biological, and physical hazards—to ensure that programming decisions proactively support occupant safety, regulatory compliance, and long-term operational resilience.
Apply risk-informed programming strategies that align scientific workflows with appropriate engineering controls, adjacencies, and infrastructure systems, safeguarding user well-being while promoting efficient, code-compliant, and adaptable laboratory environments.
This course is approved by AIA CES for 1 LU/HSW credit.
Speaker
Kelly Smyth, AIA
Associate Director of Lab Planning
Genesis AEC
Watch on demand
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