Written by Paul Boken
In today’s projects, lighting is no longer simply about selecting fixtures or meeting code. Lighting has evolved into a complex, high-impact system that directly influences project cost, schedule, user experience, and energy performance. While base engineering services remain critical to technical success, bridging the gap between creative design goals and technical system integration has become a specialized discipline.
The following points are intended to respectfully clarify where additional lighting services add value — ensuring smoother project delivery and protecting the best interests of both the design team and the client.
Common Misconceptions — and the Realities
Misconception
Reality
“Lighting is already included.”
Base engineering provides essential technical layouts and code compliance. Specialized lighting services deliver full creative and operational integration with modern systems and controls.
“Don’t engineers already design the lighting?”
Engineers deliver the technical backbone. Specialized lighting services integrate design quality, system performance, and user experience seamlessly with technical goals.
“This project isn’t big enough or complex enough to need extra lighting support.”
Project size does not reduce lighting complexity. Lighting issues are consistently a top 3 cause of RFIs, change orders, and schedule delays. Proactive coordination saves 5–10x the cost later.
“We have a rep helping us — we trust them.”
Reps are valued partners, but their primary role is sales. In a competitive market, bias toward specific product packages can sometimes unintentionally impact project outcomes. Specialized lighting services provide neutral, project-first advocacy.
“We’ve done this without extra lighting support for years — why now?”
Lighting systems today are vastly more complex. What was once manageable informally now carries real risk. Controls, human factors, code requirements, and owner expectations have evolved, making formal lighting coordination an essential part of modern project delivery.
How Specialized Lighting Support Helps the Project Team
- Enhances Collaboration between architectural, engineering, and construction teams.
- Minimizes Change Orders and RFIs, reducing schedule risks.
- Protects the Design Intent while maintaining technical excellence.
- Provides Unbiased Product Coordination, avoiding hidden risks and unexpected costs.
- Optimizes Control Strategies early, preventing late-stage redesigns.
- Improves Occupant Experience through better human-centric lighting design.
- Supports LEED, WELL, and Energy Targets through more effective systems planning.
“Lighting today is a full technical system tied directly to cost, schedule, energy performance, and occupant experience. Specialized lighting services exist not to replace engineering but to strengthen the project team, close gaps, and protect the design and the owner. It’s an investment that improves outcomes and prevents unnecessary risk.”
