News & Insights
VIDEO: Empowering life sciences challenges through commissioning
Why this matters now
Life sciences facilities operate in an environment where precision, compliance, and performance are interconnected. Whether supporting research, manufacturing, testing, or product development, these facilities must meet highly specific operational requirements while coordinating input from a wide range of stakeholders. As projects become more specialized, the challenge is often not the technology itself—it is creating alignment around what success looks like from the very beginning.
When project goals, performance expectations, and operational needs are not clearly defined early, teams can face costly revisions, scheduling delays, and uncertainty during validation and startup. Owners and project leaders are increasingly focused on reducing those risks by establishing a clear understanding of how a facility will be used, what conditions it must maintain, and how systems will support day-to-day operations. The earlier those conversations occur, the greater the opportunity to avoid misunderstandings later in the project lifecycle.
What leaders are weighing
Life sciences organizations must balance speed, technical complexity, regulatory expectations, and stakeholder priorities throughout project delivery. Researchers, facility operators, engineers, contractors, and specialized vendors may each bring different perspectives and requirements to the table.
One of the most important decisions leaders face is determining how to translate operational goals into actionable project requirements. Defining owner project requirements early helps establish a shared vision for the project while creating a framework for decision-making throughout design, construction, and operations. However, developing those requirements takes time, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how a facility will ultimately function.
Organizations are also evaluating how commissioning can move beyond a final project checkpoint and instead serve as a continuous process that supports project success from concept through occupancy.
How Salas O’Brien is helping clients respond
Salas O’Brien helps life sciences clients navigate complex projects by focusing on the operational needs that drive facility performance. Our teams work with stakeholders to understand how spaces will be used, identify critical requirements, and establish clear project objectives early in the process.
By integrating commissioning from the development phase forward, we help create continuity across planning, design, construction, and operations. When unique challenges emerge, clients benefit from access to multidisciplinary expertise that supports informed decisions and long-term project goals.
Kristina Sing, PE
Kristina Sing has more than 30 years of experience in mechanical systems for high-performance environments. Kristina brings a holistic perspective to mechanical systems, connecting comfort, air quality, energy efficiency, and long-term performance with the teams who design, operate, and maintain those systems. She is especially passionate about developing high-performing teams and creating environments where both people and buildings can thrive. Kristina serves as a senior vice president at Salas O’Brien. Contact her at [email protected]
James Anderton, CxA, LEED GA
James Anderton brings 35 years of experience spanning engineering design, construction, project management, and commissioning. His early work as a journeyman and certified HVAC technician gives him a practical perspective on how building systems are installed, operated, and maintained. He has led commissioning efforts for a wide range of healthcare, education, laboratory, government, and commercial facilities, while also developing industry standards and providing technical training. James is a past president of the California Building Commissioning Association. James serves as a director of commissioning services at Salas O’Brien. Contact him at [email protected].