Lessons Learned from Managing the Design of the 'Water Cube' National Swimming Centre for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games

This article discusses the main lessons learned from the management of the design of the 'Water Cube' National Swimming Aquatic Centre (a landmark building for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games), including forming an international partnership, managing cultural differences and risks, dealing with intellectual property and ownership of design to establish a legacy. The article also discusses design management strategies and innovations. It was found that Beijing's lack of regulatory transparency, regional differences and a relationship-based business culture were some of the factors that made China a challenging project environment. Cultural understanding and relationship (guanxi) building were fundamental strategies in responding to these challenges. It was also found that developing a shared ownership of intellectual property and innovative design ideas may facilitate the collaboration between Western and Chinese partners. In addition, it was necessary for the foreign design and project management teams to be continuously involved in the construction stage to ensure the conversion of design into reality, construction quality and personal fulfilment.