A new study by the American Institute of Architects and the Associated General Contractors of America focuses on improving the relationship between architects and contractors.
The fifth edition of The Architect’s Journey to Specification explores how the parties align, differ, and depend on each other. Major findings include:
- A majority of architects and contractors want to work more collaboratively for the benefit of all.
- Successful relationships benefit from mutual understandings and alignment about client advocacy and the purpose of substitutions.
- Transparency and communication are key to building more trusted working relationships for the benefit of all parties and the built environment.
- Earlier collaboration and more clarity around design intent is likely to set projects up for success for all parties.
“This report is a first step towards fostering greater understanding between architects and contractors,” said AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Lakisha Ann Woods in a news release. “Ultimately, we hope it will help them to improve their working relationships, achieve even greater success on their projects, and build a better world.”
Related Stories
Building Team | Jan 7, 2019
2019 outlook: Firms not betting on another record-setting year
Despite the positive indicators for the market, AEC professionals remain largely cautious when it comes to growth prospects for 2019.
Building Team | Jan 4, 2019
Design-build delivery is setting new parameters for project management
FMI paper provides clues to what makes these contracts click (or not).
Building Team | Dec 11, 2018
And then there were two: HQ2 sites, in hindsight, seemed obvious
The two cities already had the greatest number of Amazon employees outside of Seattle.
Building Team | Oct 16, 2018
Dead lobby syndrome: An affliction only experience can cure
The competition for great tenants has rarely been as fierce as it is today.
Building Team | Aug 21, 2018
Five habits that are keeping your digital strategy from working
Strategies are always created with the best of intentions for improving business, the effort involved in executing the strategy – especially ones involving disruptive digital capabilities – is greatly underestimated.
Building Team | Aug 17, 2018
Silicon Valley is here. Get over it.
AEC firms continue to have angst about a tech-industry takeover of the market. One expert’s advice: “Embrace technology. Do not fear. You can shape it.”
Sponsored | Building Materials | Aug 1, 2018
Building for now... and the future
Metal building systems are often selected for large-sized structures, and with good reason.
Building Team | Jul 30, 2018
Construction tech is the new investment darling for VC funds
In the first half of 2018, venture capital firms invested $1.05 billion in global construction tech startups, setting a record high.
Building Team | Jun 22, 2018
What owners should know before choosing the design-build project delivery method
Outside of drawing up a well-written contract, owners often overlook a key attribute that can significantly impact the success of a design-build project, writes Skanska’s Julie Hyson.
