The scale of the mechanical and plumbing systems required to support a large, multi-building academic health sciences/research center entails a lot of ductwork. Getting mechanical systems installed and running while carrying out activities from other building disciplines requires a great deal of coordinated effort. A university and its facilities-management team should be sure that the project team is employing the technology, communication and coordination strategies needed to get the job done right. Advances in 3-D computer-aided drafting technology have made it possible for mechanical contractors to identify architectural, structural and other issues that could create conflicts. This article describes how a project in mechanical systems design can be undertaken through the help of computer-aided drafting technology. The author also describes the elements involved in the successful installation and maintenance of mechanical systems.