UDS was originally founded as an architectural and real estate planning company. Subsequently, a design team was incorporated, and currently, with the addition of an operational team, the company possesses a significant characteristic of being able to handle everything from "planning," including business planning and project management, "design," and the execution of completed facilities through "operation."
Why Operations?
You might wonder why a company that started as an architectural and real estate planning firm is involved in operation as well. The reason lies in the belief of founder Fumio Kajiwara that experiencing operations enables a true understanding of what is required for effective planning or design. According to him, unless planners and designers grasp operations, they cannot create places that satisfy clients or gain custmers' support. With this philosophy, UDS aimed and successfully realized an organization capable of seamlessly encompassing "planning," "design," and "operations."
Significance of the Trinity: "Planning," "Design," and "Operations"
When launching a project or facility, typically, different companies specializing in "design," "planning," and "operations" each take on their respective roles.
However, in such a framework, certain aspects might be overlooked. For instance, in a hotel context, while guest perspectives are considered, operational factors like cleaning and customer service might not be fully incorporated into the design. This can result in facilities that, despite great design, are inconvenient for the operational staff or not conducive to a pleasant guest experience.
One of UDS's key principles, the "User-Centric Approach," has been upheld since the company's founding. Undertaking operations aligns with this approach.
By encompassing operations, UDS can develop hotels that cater to the genuine needs of those who are directly involved, incorporating perspectives from both guests and the staff who manage the site daily. This approach not only ensures customer satisfaction but also garners support from employees, resulting in a sustainable business that enhances the environment and contributes to better spaces. This chain reaction of improving spaces leads to a better city.
This evolution is why UDS, which originally embarked on the mission of enriching and enlivening cities through the synergy of "design," "business," and "society," transitioned to its current organizational style that includes operations.
Collaboration and Circulation within the Organization
When working on projects that involve operations, UDS forms project teams composed of planning, design, and operations staff. This structure enables an exchange of viewpoints from different angles, ensuring that what planning and design intended is understood and embraced by operations. This alignment fosters successful day-to-day operations and expansion. Furthermore, feedback from operations can be used to enhance facilities and inform future projects.
Through these principles and actions, UDS operates with pride and strength in the trinity of planning, design, and operations.
Going forward, UDS will continue to leverage its accumulated knowledge and user feedback through a feedback loop to enhance its planning and design. With this approach, UDS aims to contribute to the creation of vibrant, enjoyable cities by crafting spaces that resonate with the genuine needs of the community.
