Publications

The following are articles written by the FAS Building Technologies Program. Topics include all of the program's focus areas, but are focused largely on policy and emergency housing. Full text .pdf files can be found for each article by clicking "read more" following each description below.

Publications

About the Building Technolgies Program

A two page write-up about the building technologies program with its mission statement, areas of focus, and key staff members. Read more...

Surviving the FEMA Aftermath

FEMA’s inability to meet emergency housing needs has become a national scandal. The roots of this problem lie in a deeply flawed procurement process, and without drastic changes the current fiasco of providng substandard, dangerous housing for disaster victims is bound to repeat itself.

This paper outlines the necessary steps for FEMA to take to properly replace formaldehyde filled travel trailers, and to fundamentally fix the agency's approach to housing procurement.

Product Approval

This paper explains two processes for manufacturers to demonstrate code compliance of their products, as well as the costs and benefits of each. By making these distinctions clear, a product manufacturer will be able to optimize the process of product approval and significantly reduce the amount of time and money spent. Read More...

Improving the Building Industry Through Learning Technologies.

An article written by the Building Technologies Program regarding the potential application of advanced learning technologies to the improvement of the building industry. Read more...

MEMA and the Alternative Housing Pilot Program

Building Technologies Program Manager Joe Hagerman acted as an advisor to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) for the state's bid to FEMA's Alternative Housing Pilot Program. The following article explains the program, as well as the innovative results of MEMA's proposal. Read more...

Suggested Procurement Strategies

Using the lessons from FAS's involvement in the Mississippi Alternative Housing Program to design, prototype, and produce the highest quality unit in the shortest amount of time,FAS has put together the final suggested procurement process for emergency housing. Read more...