Archive by Author
Squinting at the Light at the End of the Tunnel
This is the time of year when wealthy individuals begin to consult with their accountants and financial advisers to assess how their investments have performed in the past 12 months. Although financial advisers are rarely advocates for spending, this year may reveal a modest exception.
A few potential clients with recovered investment capital are ready to allocate a bit of their money to re-boot dormant or deferred projects. These individuals are, just now, receiving news from their advisers. And these individuals may, in turn, begin to call you to revive dormant projects, or to discuss new projects that might begin in 2011.
by Jeff Lambert
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Michael Bernard on Knowledge Management: What’s In It for Architects?
A recent conference, KA Connect 2010, highlighted the growing role of information technology as a driver of practice in architecture, engineering, and construction including both emerging trends and issues relevant to current practice. Over 35 speakers shared perspectives from architects, engineers, software developers, client-side construction managers, business development consultants, and outsourcing consultants. It was a rare opportunity to speculate on how to transition from present to future practice. These transitions are not painless, as anyone who’s implemented BIM can tell you. However, once in place, these new technologies and practices can result in greater integration and engagement during the design process.
by Jeff Lambert
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Michael Bernard on Mentorship in Architecture
“Recently, I spoke to a group of architecture students. We had just concluded a panel discussion on career alternatives to the traditional practice of architecture. I asked the students if they intended to pursue careers outside the familiar realm of traditional practice. Out of 30 students, 25 raised their hands.
I asked a second question: how many of the students intended to engage in the effort to obtain their architectural license? In response to this question, eight students raised their hands. As I see it, the future of the architectural profession is in the hands of these eight students – and three of those eight are “on the fence” about whether to pursue a career in architecture or to explore other professional options.”
by Jeff Lambert
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Marketing and Business Development 2010: Use Your Windshield – Not Your Rear View Mirror
“Chances are, the new economy will not return to its former vigor. Architects must develop strategies that look to the future, rather than relying on solutions that worked six months ago. Prospective clients will likely pay in cash and drive hard bargains. Do not be false or opportunistic in your outreach; but do join boards that would benefit from your commitment. And remember that the telephone will not ring if we stare at it.”
Michael Bernard, Principal
V-Practice Consulting
by Jeff Lambert
