5 Tips for Working with Architects and Engineers

Architects and Engineers are a dime a dozen right?

I don’t think so!

Anyone providing a professional service, such as a construction design professional, varies in technical skill, business ethics, personality, and methods of delivery. Working with these service providers requires some basic knowledge of the Architectural/Engineering/Construction (AEC) Industry.

Owners who typically work with design professionals include any person or organization in need of a built facility. These facilities can be vertical (buildings and structures rising from the ground) or horizontal (infrastructure such as roads, utilities, and drainage structures). When new, expanded, or renovated facilities are needed, owners call on architects and engineers as first responders to aid in the planning and design of their projects.

Once a design professional is selected, a relationship begins unlike any other. It’s not a dating relationship or a marriage (Whew!). This is a unique business relationship in which there is a high need for trust, confidence, and technical skill. Here are five tips to owners for working with an architect or engineer that will help you navigate these unique waters.

1.     Overcommunicate and Repeat

Architects and Engineers are not usually excellent communicators. It is critical to identify the scope of services expected and understand what you are getting for those services. As a design project progresses, if you wander away from the original scope, expect to communicate those changes verbally and in writing several times. There is nothing wrong with repeating your message several times in several ways. This promotes clarity and better understanding.

2.     Safety and Function Trumps Everything

Always remember when undergoing a construction project, the safety and functionality of your project is always number one . . . always! This means there will be times when beauty or cost savings are sacrificed for the sake of the public good. Designers want you to be happy with your project in both appearance and cost, but ethically, they cannot sacrifice safety or functionality. Back to tip #1, stay in communication both verbally and in writing, about issues of appearance, cost, safety, and functionality.

3.     Understand the Designer’s Role and Responsibilities

Designers design. You are paying an architect or engineer for their ability to plan and estimate a construction project. They will produce a set of plans from which a contractor will build. Designers are responsible for the integrity of their plan. Contractors are responsible for the integrity of what they build. Many times, owners may wish to retain the services of a designer to represent them during construction. This promotes a more seamless process from design through construction.

4.     Use Drawings, Sketches, Examples, and Pictures

Designers understand spatial relationships and can more easily “see” a project than understand it verbally. Find similar projects to your own and take pictures. Make good use of drawings and sketches to communicate your ideas. You don’t have to be an artist to sketch your ideas which make your concept easier to understand and design.

5.     Ask, “How does it work?”

Always ask, “How does it work?” Design professionals enjoy explaining the fruits of their labor. Give them a scratch pad when you ask because they also like to communicate with sketches and drawings. If they are using technical jargon just tell them to use language you can understand. Don’t be afraid to push them a bit for clarification. After all, this is your project for which you are paying, so ask lots of questions.

I trust these tips will assist you the next time you engage the services of an architect or engineer. Successful projects require good working relationships between project owners and design professionals. May your next project be successful as you engage these relational tips!