"the first step is understanding that architecture is not just design …
it's a business"
Understanding primary drivers in architectural practice:
- design excellence
- collaboration
- innovation
- problem solving
- value adding
- sustainability
- thought leadership
- client relationships
- efficiency
- cost control
Understanding managing and co-ordinating work practices is core to the ‘business’ of design:
- quality assurance
- environmental management
- work health + safety
- ‘safety in design’
- industrial relations compliance
- human resources
- company policies + standards
- programming + resourcing
- research + development
- technology (BIM/Revit/3D)
- marketing + public relations
- leads/enquires/proposals
- bids + tender responses
- awards submissions
- creative services (graphics/branding)
- finance
- IT
Understanding best practice brings:
- consistency at both operational and strategic levels
- enhanced project delivery
- value-add to existing infrastructure and processes
- commercial agility
- organisational intelligence
- diversity
Understanding importance of HR function and best talent attraction and retention strategies:
- recruitment
- induction
- policies + procedures
- equal employment opportunity
- professional development
- training/cpd
- mentoring
- performance management
- grievance handling
- reward + recognition
- morale + motivation
Understanding project performance monitoring:
- project programming
- time recording
- budget setting
- resourcing
- forecasting
- invoicing
- reporting