A study published by the American Institute of Architects (AIA), in partnership with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), explores the relationship between architects and contractors and the needs of both professions.
The fifth edition of The Architect’s Journey to Specification focuses on improving the working relationship between architects and contractors, exploring how the parties align, differ, and depend on each other.
Highlights from the report 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,” says Lakisha Ann Woods, AIA executive vice-president and CEO. “Ultimately, we hope it will help them to improve their working relationships, achieve even greater success on their projects, and build a better world.”
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