In a just-released report, both architects and builders strongly expressed their support for a collaborative approach to projects, providing only the latest evidence that both professions don’t necessarily have to be in conflict.
Published by the American Institute of Architects, the report, The Architects Journey to Specification, notes that 90% of contractors surveyed indicated a preference for working more closely with architects than they currently do. The figure, at 80%, was slightly smaller for architects supporting closer collaboration.
Despite the good intentions, however, the report also notes that, to date, “contractors and architects often disagree on responsibilities and the degree of detailing and specificity required in the documentation.”
The biggest complaint on the building side: drawings and specs submitted incomplete or with errors, and often lacking in clearly stated design intent. Architects’ biggest gripe: getting incomplete information from contractors who may often also lack the willingness to closely follow a design intent.
The report, done in conjunction with the Associated General Contractors of America, additionally notes that while architects and contractors are generally in agreement when it comes to which party is responsible for certain project functions, they disagree on who should be responsible for advocating for the client.
“While contractors view the task as equal,” says the report, “nearly half of architect respondents believe the responsibility rests mostly on themselves.”
Perhaps no surprise: Architects and contractors say they have often communicated less with each other once a project nears completion.
Respondents in both disciplines indicated the least enthusiasm about working together during the programming and planning stage of a given project, with support for collaboration among both groups reaching a peak during the design development phase.
The report additionally notes that architects tend to focus more on the environmental impact of a given project, while “contractors focus more on on-time delivery and profitability.”
Lakisha Ann Woods, chief executive officer of the American Institute of Architects, noted in the report’s introduction that the AIA and AGC are currently in the process of developing tools and programs designed to “support a more collaborative approach to the architecture/contractor relationship.”
By Garry Boulard
