AIA Best Practices

February 18, 2026

Explore experience-based insights and expert advice across a range of business acumen and firm management topics in architecture and design.

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By members, for members

AIA Best Practices is a curated collection of relevant, experience-based knowledge and expert guidance on firm management, project delivery, contracts, and more—aligned with The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition. You’ll find:

  • Essential knowledge based on deep experience
  • Expert advice that is immediately usable
  • New content and recent updates to definitive articles
three individuals stand around a 3D architectural model within a well-lit office.

The profession

Laws, regulations, and codes of conduct govern the architecture profession and define architects' obligations to the public. AIA members comprise a community of practice that also agrees to abide by its Code of Ethics and continuing education requirements. For prospective architects, the path to licensure is prescribed. For emerging and mature practitioners, professional life includes participation in professional organizations and architectural education. For some architects, professional life at every stage includes engagement in public interest design.

  • The AIA Code of Ethics and ethical practice
    Excerpted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition

    Understand the evolution, structure, and enforcement of the AIA Code of Ethics, including architects’ responsibilities to the public, clients, colleagues, the profession, and the environment, along with legal constraints and historical changes.

  • What you need to know about registration and rules
    Excerpted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 13th edition

    A concise FAQ guide explaining the legal and ethical standards architects must follow, including distinctions between titles, proper use of seals, and the responsibilities tied to professional registration across different jurisdictions.

  • Know your next gen leaders, inside and out
    Contributed by Mark Goodale

    Learn how to identify and develop future leaders by understanding their strengths, working styles, motivations, and growth areas to support smarter succession planning and long-term firm success.

  • Mentoring interns: A firm commitment
    Contributed by Jonathan Kanda, AIA, Jeffrey DeGregorio, AIA, and George Takoudes, AIA

    Discover how structured internship mentoring programs strengthen talent development, encourage cross-team learning, and reinforce a firm’s responsibility to invest in the next generation of designers.

  • The benefits of a mentorship program in your local chapter
    Contributed by Jason Takeuchi, AIA

    Explore how chapter-based mentorship programs can grow membership, build leadership pipelines, strengthen professional networks, and generate sustainable engagement at low cost.

  • How to leave a firm without making enemies
    Contributed by Sara Boyer, AIA

    Learn how to transition professionally while preserving relationships and reputation.

  • Residential walk-through consultation services
    Contributed by Laura Montllor, AIA

    Learn how offering residential walk-through consultations can create new revenue streams while helping homeowners make informed decisions about renovations, feasibility, and zoning.

  • Tips for a successful job interview
    Contributed by the editors of AIA Architect

    Prepare for more effective interviews by learning what questions to ask employers so you can better evaluate culture, expectations, and long-term career fit.

  • The Boyer Report: Seven principles for action
    Contributed by AIA staff; Adapted from the Boyer Report

    Understand how the Boyer Report reshaped architectural education and practice by promoting civic engagement, diversity, integrated learning, and stronger connections between academia and the profession. 

  • Managing the risks of pro bono services
    By Kirsten R. Murray, FAIA

    Learn how to responsibly offer pro bono services while protecting your firm through clear agreements, defined scopes, and proper risk management strategies.

  • Roles of the architect in nonprofit development
    Contributed by Louis B. Smith Jr., AIA

    Explore how architects can guide nonprofit clients through funding, regulatory, and development challenges while balancing mission-driven work with sustainable business practices.

  • Government relations: Cultivating decision makers
    Contributed by Tim Barrick, FSMPS, and Tony Steinhardt, FSMPS

    Discover strategies for building long-term relationships with public officials and positioning your firm for public-sector opportunities through ethical engagement and consistent advocacy.

  • The architect in the political process
    Contributed by William M. Polk, FAIA

    Learn how architects can influence policy effectively through coalition building, informed advocacy, and strategic participation in government affairs.

Two people stand back to back, each working at their own large surface in the work area/office

Firm management

Operating an architectural firm requires knowledge of marketing, financial management, and human resources. Firm development, including ongoing attention to strategic direction, knowledge management, and administrative effectiveness, must be an ongoing concern for firms of all sizes. Throughout a firm's life cycle, from start-up through growth and development, ownership transition, and potential expansion to global or multi-office practice, entrepreneurial architects benefit from increasing their understanding of management best practices.

05.02 Entrepreneurial practices: Starting an architecture firm 

  • Starting your own firm
    Contributed by AIA staff

    Three AIA members share their experiences starting their own firms and transitioning from employee to employer.

  • Practice made simple (but not easy)
    Contributed by Hugh Hochberg, Assoc. AIA

    Understand how focusing on the right clients, talent, leadership, and operational systems can simplify the path to building a resilient and profitable practice.

  • Seven attributes of design-first firms
    Contributed by the AIA staff

    Explore the core characteristics that enable design-driven firms to innovate, sustain quality, motivate talent, and grow strategically.

  • Seven tips for emerging firms
    Excerpted and adapted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice

    Gain practical guidance for building stability, managing risk, and growing sustainably.

  • Starting a firm: Essential resources
    Excerpted from Architect’s Essentials of Starting, Assessing, and Transitioning a Design Firm by Peter Piven, FAIA, and Bradford Perkins, FAIA

    Learn which professional advisors and resources are critical for launching a successful architecture firm and avoiding early operational pitfalls.

  • Starting a firm: Lessons from failure
    Excerpted from Architect’s Essentials of Starting, Assessing, and Transitioning a Design Firm by Peter Piven, FAIA, and Bradford Perkins, FAIA

    Gain insight from common startup mistakes to help balance creativity with financial discipline, organization, and long-term planning. 

 

05.03-04 Strategic planning and firm growth 

  

05.05 Leadership effectiveness 

  • How to be(come) a principal
    by Kathryn Sprankle

    Firm principals must adapt to a changing business and management  environment. Here’s how to become a better architecture firm leader.  

  • Leadership in practice
    by Hugh Hochberg, AIA

    These characteristics, which are prevalent in architect leaders, can be honed and developed over time but often are innate.

  • Leading and coaching high-performance teams
    by Matthew Bartner, AIA

    Find out how the best leaders and project managers in architecture deliver high-quality work and create opportunities for team members to thrive.

  • Accountability builds leadership credibility
    Contributed by Robert Gaarder, PhD

    Learn how clear expectations and consistent accountability strengthen leadership trust, morale, and performance.  

  

05.06 Ownership transitions 

 

05.08-09 Navigating global markets and/or multi-office growth 

 

05.10-12 Internal operations: Administration, knowledge, and information systems 

  • Lessons learned: A potent knowledge-building tool
    Excerpted and adapted from Architect’s Essentials of Professional Development by Jean R. Valence, Hon. AIA

    Discover how structured lessons-learned programs improve project quality, collaboration, and organizational learning.

  • Will you be remembered?
    Contributed by Steven M. Cox, AIA

    Learn why preserving project records matters for professional legacy, historical value, and future scholarship.

  • Keys to classifying project files
    Contributed by Tara L. Nelson

    Explore a practical framework for organizing project files to improve efficiency, consistency, and knowledge retention. 

06.01-02 Architectural marketing: From plan to practice 

  • Finding leads
    Excerpted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice by Howard J. Wolff

    Learn proven strategies for generating new business through relationships, networking, and market positioning.

  • But words will never hurt me
    Contributed by Thomas S. Townes, AIA, and Andrew J. Carlowicz, Jr.

    Discover how careful marketing language protects firms from unintended legal risk.

  • Client’s-eye view of marketing presentations
    Contributed by Frank Staslowski

    Learn what clients value most in presentations—and what to avoid.

  • Ten things you should know about potential clients
    Excerpted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice

    Understand the key factors that help evaluate client fit, project risk, and long-term relationship potential.

  • The art of empathetic listening
    Contributed from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice

    Learn how stronger listening skills improve trust, collaboration, and client relationships.

  • Architecture as a value proposition
    Contributed by Barry Lynch, AIA

    Learn how to position architectural services around measurable business value rather than cost.

  • Manifested core values
    Contributed by David W. Lecours

    Discover how expressing core values visually and culturally can strengthen branding, recruitment, and client alignment.

  • Marketing plans spur new firm growth
    Contributed by Peter Piven, FAIA, and Bradford Perkins, FAIA

    Understand how strategic marketing planning drives sustainable growth.

  • Maximizing your marketing materials
    Contributed by editors of AIA Architect

    Learn how to design marketing materials that capture attention and communicate value quickly.

  • Retaining clients after the rainmaker leaves
    Contributed by Dennis M. Schrag

    Learn how to maintain trust and continuity when key relationship leaders depart.

  • The principal’s guide to responsive website design
    Contributed by Josh Miles

    Understand how a strong, responsive website can support marketing, SEO, and lead generation.

  • Market intelligence on clients and competitors
    Contributed by Frank A. Stasiowski, FAIA, and excerpted from Architect’s Essentials of Winning Proposals

    Learn how systematically gathering and sharing market intelligence about clients, prospects, and competitors helps your firm identify opportunities, strengthen proposals, sharpen positioning, and make more informed business development decisions. 

 

06.03 Public relations and communications 

 

06.04 Networking and business development 

  • Maximizing your marketing and business development ROI
    Contributed by Rich Friedman

    Learn how to prioritize high-impact marketing and business development strategies, engage more staff in growth efforts, and track meaningful metrics to maximize return on investment.

  • Seven keys to successful business development training
    Contributed by Rich Friedman

    Learn how to design effective business development training programs that build firm-wide engagement, reinforce accountability, encourage active learning, and translate training into measurable growth results.

  • Simple steps for measuring your marketing ROI
    Contributed by Craig Park, Assoc. AIA, FSMPS

    Learn how to establish clear metrics, track performance data, and formalize a repeatable process to measure marketing effectiveness, reduce wasted spending, and improve client-focused decision making. 

 

06.05 Qualifications, proposals, and interviews 

  • Checklist: Final exams for winning proposals
    Contributed by Frank Stasiowski, FAIA

    Use a proven checklist to avoid proposal errors and improve submission quality.

  • How to conduct a successful loss debrief
    Contributed by Rich Friedman

    Learn how to extract actionable insights from lost pursuits to strengthen future proposals.

  • In praise of plain English
    Contributed by Bill Schmalz, FAIA

    Discover how clear, simple writing improves communication, credibility, and reader engagement.

  • Measuring writing quality: Raising the bar
    Excerpted from Writing for Design

    Learn how to evaluate and elevate the quality of your firm’s written communications.

  • Reality check: Assess whether a project is for you
    Contributed by Frank Stasiowski, FAIA

    Use a structured evaluation tool to decide which opportunities align with your firm’s goals and capacity.

  • The surprising power of feedback in attracting clients
    Contributed by Ryan Suydam

    Learn how using client feedback strategically can improve trust, differentiation, and win rates.

  • Sample questions for preproposal client interviews
    Contributed by Craig Park, Assoc. AIA, FSMPS

    Learn how to ask strategic, open-ended questions that uncover client needs, project risks, decision criteria, and expectations—helping you craft stronger proposals and improve your chances of winning work.

  • The client whisperer
    Contributed by Frank Stasiowski, FAIA, and excerpted from Architect’s Essentials of Winning Proposals

    Learn how using structured client research and marketplace surveys helps your firm better understand client perceptions, uncover hidden opportunities, strengthen relationships, and align strategy with what clients truly value. 

  • Accounting basics: The income statement and KPI
    by Michael A. Webber

    Learn the basics of accounting for architecture firms relating to the Income Statement, or Profit & Loss Statement—including certain industry-standard KPIs that are essential to monitoring firm operations and managing firm profit.

  • Accounting basics: The balance sheet and KPI
    by Michael A. Webber

    An understanding of the basics of accounting for architecture firms—including industry-standard key performance indicators (KPIs) and balance sheets—is imperative for your firm to be able to manage profit and financial stability. 

  • Starting a firm: Basic financial principles
    by Peter Pivan, FAIA, and Bradford Perkins, FAIA

    Starting a firm requires careful planning—consider these 10 financial principles of developing and executing a successful business plan. 

  • Starting a firm: A glossary of essential financial terms
    by Peter Pivan, FAIA, and Bradford Perkins, FAIA

    Grasping key financial terms and concepts enables firm owners to better manage their finances and understand financial reports. 

  • Business plans: The executive summary
    Contributed by AIA staff

    Clarify how thoughtful business planning strengthens new architecture firms by identifying customer needs, articulating service value, mapping outreach methods, and outlining financial resources, supported by structured components like market analysis, operations planning, and financial projections.

  • Avoiding pitfalls of consultant compensation
    Excerpted and adapted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 13th edition

    Learn how clear contract language and upfront discussions about payment responsibility help architects and consultants manage nonpayment risk and avoid costly compensation disputes.

  • Collections quandary: Managing accounts receivable
    Contributed by David Ken, CPA

    Learn how consistent communication, shared accountability, and structured tracking systems help firms improve cash flow, strengthen client relationships, and reduce payment delays.

  • Budgeting for the construction phase
    Contributed by Charles Schreckenberger, AIA, and Bill Schmalz, FAIA

    Learn how to properly allocate fees and staff time during construction administration to avoid underfunding, improve profitability, and align project budgets with real-world effort.

  • Budgeting basics
    Contributed by Michael A. Webber

    Learn the fundamentals of financial budgeting—including income statements, key cost categories, and industry benchmarks—to improve profitability, guide strategic planning, and strengthen financial decision making.

  • Budgeting key performance indicators
    Contributed by Michael A. Webber

    Learn how to use industry-standard KPIs—such as utilization rate, net multiplier, payroll multiplier, and overhead rate—to evaluate financial health, benchmark performance, and guide smarter budgeting decisions.

  • Creating an annual budget for a small firm
    Contributed by Michael A. Webber

    See how using historical performance, staffing capacity, utilization rates, and key financial multipliers helps small firms build realistic annual budgets, forecast revenue accurately, and make proactive staffing and workload decisions.

  • Creating an annual budget for a large firm
    Contributed by Michael A. Webber

    Learn how to build and analyze multi-unit budgets, allocate overhead accurately, and evaluate profitability across divisions to support informed leadership decisions and strategic growth.

  • Budgeting indirect expenses
    Contributed by Michael A. Webber

    Learn how to forecast overhead costs—including payroll-related expenses, marketing, facilities, and corporate costs—to improve financial planning, working capital management, and long-term stability. 

08.01-03 Overview, compensation, and hiring 

  • Definition of architectural positions
    Excerpted from the AIA Compensation & Benefits Report

    Explore architecture firm position descriptions for classification and salary reporting purposes from the AIA Compensation & Benefits Report, including management, architects, designers, financial and administrative personnel, and more. 

  • Employee benefits
    Contributed by the AIA Trust

    Understand how competitive benefits programs help attract, retain, and motivate top talent.

  • Maintaining personnel files
    Contributed by Lynda Fitzgerald

    Learn how to properly create, organize, secure, and maintain employee personnel records to ensure legal compliance, confidentiality, accurate documentation, and clear communication of firm policies.

  • The seven hidden reasons employees leave
    Contributed by F. Leigh Branham

    Learn the underlying causes of employee disengagement and turnover—and how better hiring, coaching, recognition, growth opportunities, work-life balance, and leadership trust can significantly improve retention.

  • Successful employee onboarding
    Contributed by Donald C. Simpson, AIA

    Learn how intentional onboarding—starting before day one and continuing through the first six months—accelerates performance, strengthens culture, improves collaboration, and increases long-term retention. 

 

08.04 Professional development and mentoring 

  • Formal mentoring goals and guidelines
    Contributed by Emily Grandstaff-Rice, AIA

    Learn how structured mentoring programs strengthen professional growth and firm culture.

  • Annual performance reviews
    Contributed by Sharlyn Lauby

    Learn how modern alternatives to traditional annual reviews—such as regular check-ins, real-time feedback, and future-focused conversations—can improve engagement, performance, and development.

  • Five determining factors of employee attitude
    Contributed by AIA staff

    Learn how workplace environment, supervisors, coworkers, leadership, and meaningful work influence employee satisfaction and retention—and how using proven survey tools can guide improvement.

  • Fostering multiple talents in architecture firms
    Adapted from an AIA Architect article by Jack Train, FAIA

    See how intentional talent development, role clarity, mentoring, and delegation help firms cultivate diverse skill sets, strengthen leadership capacity, and support sustainable growth.

  • How to create an in-house university
    Contributed by Russell Boniface, excerpted and adapted from an AIA Architect article

    Discover how a structured internal learning program can accelerate professional development, support knowledge sharing, provide continuing education credits, and strengthen firm culture.

  • The many rewards of successful mentoring
    Contributed by Ken L. Ross Jr., FAIA

    Understand how strong mentoring relationships improve professional growth, knowledge transfer, leadership development, client confidence, and long-term firm performance. 

Man wearing PPE stands in wooden-framed construction site, looking at his clipboard

Project delivery

Architecture is a project-based endeavor, and architectural practice centers on project delivery. Project delivery methods change in response to economic trends, environmental concerns, and technological advances. Skill in project management and leadership increases in importance as projects become more complex and integrated. Research in practice, quality management, use of technology, and understanding of the regulatory environment are ways in which architect manage complexity and improve effectiveness.

  • A problem well stated: Owner project requirements
    by Michael Lough, AIA

    Learn how a well-written owner project requirement (OPR) is the key to creating unity of intention in an architecture and design project. 

  • A primer on project delivery terms
    Contributed by a joint task force of AIA and the Associated General Contractors of America

    Get clear definitions of common project delivery methods—including design-bid-build, CM at risk, and design-build—so you can better evaluate contracts, roles, risk allocation, and procurement strategies.

  • Alternative service delivery methods
    Contributed by Victor

    Explore how delivery models such as design-build, construction manager at risk, and architect-as-consultant create different risk, liability, and opportunity profiles—and how to select the right approach for your practice and projects.

  • Blurred boundaries: Design assist and delegated design
    Contributed by Mark Walsh, AIA

    Understand the differences between design-assist and delegated design, how responsibility and liability are allocated, and how using both strategically can improve constructability, cost control, and project outcomes.

  • Roles for the architect in design-build
    Contributed by Victor

    Explore how liability, risk, and contractual responsibility shift across architect-led, contractor-led, and joint-venture design-build models—and how to protect your firm when pursuing design-build work. 

10.01-04 Managing project teams, budgets, and processes 

  • Plan for success: Project management techniques
    Contributed by AIA staff

    Discover how early planning, clear goals, defined metrics, and consistent communication strengthen project execution, improve client trust, and reduce risk throughout the project lifecycle.

  • Pros and cons of offering construction management services
    Excerpted and adapted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 13th edition

    Evaluate the financial, operational, and risk implications of adding construction management services, including potential profitability gains, expanded service offerings, and insurance considerations.

  • Checklist for forming design-build teams
    Contributed by the joint committee of The American Institute of Architects and the Associated General Contractors of America

    Use a structured checklist to align partners on culture, risk, legal structure, finances, roles, and communication—helping design-build teams establish strong foundations and avoid costly conflicts.

  • Defining roles in design-build projects
    Contributed by Victor

    Clarify how responsibilities, liability, insurance coverage, and client involvement differ in contractor-led and joint-venture design-build models to better evaluate risk before pursuing projects.

  • Managing design project costs
    Contributed by Colette Adams

    Strengthen profitability by using clear contracts, disciplined documentation, coordinated team workflows, and proactive cost tracking to prevent disputes and ensure full compensation for services.

  • Monitoring earned value: A key management tool
    Contributed by David B. Richards, AIA, PMP

    See how breaking work into measurable tasks and tracking earned value helps project managers detect problems early, improve forecasting, and protect project financial performance. 

 

10.05 Design phases 

  • Recommendations for designing lactation/wellness rooms
    by Liz York, FAIA, and Joyce Lee, FAIA

    Explore guidelines for designing lactation/wellness rooms in work and public spaces that are easy to use and offer comfort and respect to mothers. Explore guidelines for designing lactation/wellness rooms in work and public spaces that are easy to use and offer comfort and respect to mothers. 

  • 10 factors that influence every design
    Excerpted and adapted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 13th edition

    Explore the core forces—from client needs and site conditions to regulations, sustainability, cost, and schedule—that shape design decisions and project outcomes on every assignment.

  • Analyzing vulnerability and assessing security
    Contributed by Richard P. Grassie, CPP

    Gain a practical framework for identifying building vulnerabilities, conducting security assessments, and integrating protective strategies early in programming and design to reduce risk and strengthen operational resilience.

  • A client's-eye-view of building security
    Contributed by Joseph Brancato, AIA

    Understand how clients balance safety, business continuity, data protection, convenience, branding, and cost when evaluating building security strategies—and how design can integrate protection without sacrificing user experience.

  • Basic no-cost green building strategies
    Contributed by Eric R. Shamp, AIA, LEED AP

    Explore simple design decisions—such as building orientation, compact planning, daylighting, material efficiency, and water-saving fixtures—that improve energy performance and sustainability without increasing construction costs.

  • Building security by design
    Contributed by Joseph Brancato, AIA

    See how layered security, site planning, access control, landscaping, and space planning can be creatively integrated into building design to balance safety, openness, and cost.

  • Core qualities that make a great American home
    Excerpted and adapted from Celebrating the American Home: 50 Great Houses from 50 American Architects by Joanne Kellar Bouknight

    Understand how context, scale, livability, craft, and distinctiveness work together to create residential designs that feel authentic, comfortable, and enduring.

  • Designing secure parking
    Excerpted and adapted from Security Planning and Design: A Guide for Architects and Building Design Professionals

    Discover how site layout, lighting, access control, surveillance, and operational policies combine to create safer parking environments while supporting efficient circulation and user confidence.

  • Eight pillars of traditional design
    Excerpted from Creating a New Old House: Yesterday’s Character for Today’s Home by Russell Versaci, AIA

    Explore the core principles for designing authentic “new old” homes—balancing timeless character, craftsmanship, durability, natural materials, and modern comfort to create architecture with lasting appeal.

  • How eco-charrettes save resources and build project teams
    Contributed by Nathan Good, AIA, LEED AP

    See how early collaborative charrettes align stakeholders, accelerate decision-making, reduce costs, and improve sustainability outcomes through integrated design thinking.

  • Incorporating sustainability into practice
    Contributed by Andrea Love

    Discover how embedding energy literacy, performance metrics, and sustainability leadership into daily practice strengthens design quality, market competitiveness, and long-term climate responsibility.

  • Sustainable design: An ethical imperative
    Contributed by Michael R. Davis, FAIA

    Understand how recent updates to the AIA Code of Ethics make sustainable design a professional obligation—shaping standards of care, client responsibility, and environmental accountability.

  • Wayfinding signage points you in the right direction
    Contributed by Ignacio Catral

    Learn why early integration of wayfinding and signage improves user experience, supports accessibility, reinforces branding, and preserves architectural design integrity.

 

10.06-07 Construction drawings and specifications 

  • Quality control: Preparation of working drawings
    by Victor

    The quality of working drawings is among the primary metrics clients use to assess the quality of an architect’s services. Explore this preparation checklist to help you render high-quality drawings. The quality of working drawings is among the primary metrics clients use to assess the quality of an architect’s services. Explore this preparation checklist to help you render high-quality drawings.

  • The lost art of dimensioning
    Contributed by Bill Schmalz, FAIA

    Refresh essential dimensioning principles that improve drawing clarity, constructability, coordination accuracy, and overall project quality.

  • Criteria for choosing wood flooring
    Adapted from Interior Graphic Standards edited by Maryrose T. McGowan, AIA, and Kelsey A. Kruse, AIA

    Evaluate how durability, grain structure, moisture behavior, grading standards, and usage conditions influence the performance and longevity of wood flooring selections. 

 

10.09 Construction phase services 

  • A no-drama approach to changes and change orders
    Contributed by Victor

    Gain practical strategies for managing change orders with clear communication, proper documentation, and disciplined procedures to reduce conflict and professional risk.

  • Dealing with concealed site surprises
    Contributed by Albert R. Russell, AIA, CSI

    Learn how early site investigation, historical research, contingency planning, and geotechnical coordination help minimize cost and schedule impacts from hidden site conditions.

  • Site safety: Managing risks and liability
    Contributed by Victor

    Understand how contract language, professional conduct, and timely reporting influence an architect’s exposure to jobsite safety liability—and how to respond responsibly when hazards are observed.

  • Submittal triage
    Contributed by Bill Schmalz, FAIA

    Apply a triage-based approach to prioritize submittal reviews, improve turnaround times, coordinate consultants more effectively, and prevent construction schedule delays.

  • Using photography to evaluate on-site work
    Contributed by Eric Pempus, FAIA

    Learn how purposeful site photography strengthens field documentation, supports quality control, and reduces professional risk when used with clear guidelines and judgment. 

 

10.10 Project completion and post-construction 

  • After action reviews
    Contributed by Donald C. Simpson, AIA

    Leverage structured project reviews to capture lessons learned, strengthen team performance, reduce risk, and build a culture of continuous improvement.

  • Aronoff Center–Case study of a post-occupancy evaluation
    Excerpted and adapted from an article originally published in AIA Journal

    Explore how post-occupancy evaluations measure real-world building performance—revealing lessons about usability, safety, circulation, and design intent that inform better future projects.

  • Learning from experience with green building POEs
    Contributed by editors of AIA Architect

    See how post-occupancy evaluations of sustainable buildings reveal real-world performance insights that strengthen future design decisions, improve energy outcomes, and enhance occupant satisfaction. 

12.01 Origins and development of quality management 

  • Keeping tabs: Using document audits/peer reviews
    Contributed by Michael J. Lough, AIA

    Understand how structured document audits and peer reviews improve coordination, reduce errors, strengthen quality control, and support continuous improvement across project teams.

  • Less rework equals more productivity and quality
    Contributed by Michael J. Lough, AIA

    Discover how upfront planning, early decision-making, and graphically fixing key elements reduce rework, improve efficiency, and raise the overall quality of construction documents.

  • Risky business: Managing the top five hazards
    Contributed by Victor

    Identify the most common sources of professional liability—from supervision gaps to poor coordination and contract language—and how targeted quality control practices help reduce risk exposure.

  • When more is less: Why do we draw so many sheets?
    Contributed by Michael J. Lough, AIA

    Examine why construction document sets continue to grow in size—and how better planning, clearer priorities, and disciplined detailing can reduce sheet count while improving drawing quality and efficiency. 

 

12.03 Checklists 

  • Schematic design phase quality management
    by Michael Lough, AIA

    Access a schematic design checklist for managing the schematic design phase of a project and assisting project teams in meeting their obligations. 

  • Managing quality in the design development phase
    by Michael Lough, AIA

    Access a schematic design checklist for managing the schematic design phase of a project and assisting project teams in meeting their obligations. Access a schematic design checklist for managing the schematic design phase of a project and assisting project teams in meeting their obligations. 

  • Five key steps to enhancing building daylighting
    Contributed by Mark Trier, AIA, LEED AP

    Explore a structured, performance-driven approach to daylighting—covering strategy selection, modeling tools, glazing decisions, and systems coordination—to improve energy performance, occupant wellness, and code compliance. 

  • Breaking the code: Mastering building regulations
    Contributed by Rowland J. Mitchell, AIA, CSI, excerpted and adapted from The AIA Small Project Forum Journal

    Gain practical guidance for researching, documenting, and coordinating building code requirements—while avoiding common plan review mistakes that cause costly permitting delays.

  • Research codes now or risk costly delays later
    Contributed by John C. Workley, AIA

    Avoid schedule disruptions by conducting early zoning and code due diligence, coordinating with local agencies, documenting findings, and integrating regulatory requirements into project planning and design decisions.

  • 10 ways universities can become good neighbors
    Contributed by Ron Kull, FAIA, and Dale McGirr, Assoc. AIA, adapted from an article in the NACUBO Business Officer

    Explore proven principles for building productive partnerships between universities and surrounding communities—balancing growth, neighborhood identity, shared governance, economic vitality, and long-term trust.

  • Acing the civic design review process
    Excerpted and adapted from an article originally in arcCA by Wendy Kohn

    Gain practical strategies for presenting effectively to public review boards, communicating clearly with non-design audiences, framing approvals strategically, and navigating the political dynamics of civic review.

  • Harnessing the forces that make urban design succeed
    Contributed by David Dixon, FAIA, from The Architects Handbook of Professional Practice

    Understand how defining the project, analyzing issues, articulating a shared vision, and developing an achievable plan drive successful urban design outcomes that balance community, feasibility, and political support. 

Women sits at table by a bright window, holding a pencil and a small stack of papers

Contracts and agreements

Agreements and contracts delineate project services, project delivery method, compensation, and the expectations and obligations of the parties involved. Risks are identified and managed with careful attention to agreements, understanding of insurance coverage, and awareness of dispute avoidance and resolution. AIA Contract Documents provides industry-standard contract forms for use between all parties in design and construction.

15.01-03 Defining scope and negotiating agreement 

  • Defining the architect’s basic services
    Contributed by AIA staff

    Understand the common services of architectural design and the process of design-bid-build to improve your comprehension of the various phases of design services. 

  • Six tactics for hard bargaining
    Contributed by Michael Strogoff, FAIA

    Learn how to recognize aggressive negotiation tactics, stay composed under pressure, protect your interests, and determine when collaboration—or walking away—is the smartest strategy.

  • Want to make a deal? Don't shy away from conflict
    Contributed by Victor from a presentation by Steven J. Isaacs, Assoc. AIA, PE, at Victor’s 46th Annual Meeting of Invited Attorneys

    Reframe conflict as a productive part of negotiation by clarifying interests, preparing strategically, and engaging confidently to achieve stronger agreements and healthier client relationships. 

 

15.02 Services and compensation 

  • Managing the contingency allowance
    by David H. Hart, FAIA

    Learn how to properly manage a project contingency allowance to mitigate risk and provide a safeguard for the designer, contractor, and owner to complete the project on budget.

  • Getting paid
    by David Richards, FAIA

    Learn how to clearly communicate your payment requirements to your clients—and what to do when you don't receive payment on time.

  • Setting fees
    by David Richards, FAIA

    Discover how setting fees requires architects to assess service scope, manage risks, and ensure the value of services justifies the cost.

  • Charging for services
    by David Richards, FAIA

    Learn different payment strategies for architects, including retainers, milestone-based fees, and hourly billing, ensuring timely compensation.

  • Factors determining building costs
    Excerpted and adapted from The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 13th edition

    See how location, site conditions, design decisions, performance requirements, construction methods, and scheduling variables influence total building cost and long-term value.

16.01 Risk management strategies 

  • Risk management basics
    by James B. Atkins, FAIA, and Grant A. Simpson, FAIA

    Learn strategies for architects to manage professional risks and liability claims, including quick-response planning.

  • Standard of care: Confronting errors and omissions up front
    by Dale L. Munhall, AIA

    Discover how to create an initial mutual understanding of the standard of care to set a shared project expectation between an owner and architect.

  • 6 steps to prevent a cyber attack
    Contributed by Nick Maletta

    Protect your firm’s reputation, data, and financial stability by implementing practical cybersecurity measures, employee education, breach response planning, and appropriate insurance coverage.

  • 22 realistic and achievable professional liability goals
    Contributed by James B. Atkins, FAIA, excerpted and adapted from AIA Architect

    Adopt a practical framework of everyday risk management goals that strengthen project delivery, documentation, client relationships, and long-term professional protection.

  • Emerging risks in practice
    Contributed by Victor and CNA

    Stay ahead of evolving professional risks tied to new delivery models, information security, and digital practice—so your firm can adapt services, manage liability, and remain competitive in a changing marketplace.

  • Every step you take: A risk management checklist
    Contributed by Roger Neuenschwander, FAIA

    Use a comprehensive, project-phase checklist—from client selection and contract negotiation through construction administration and closeout—to proactively identify risk, strengthen decision-making, and reduce professional liability throughout the life of a project.

  • Forewarnings of potential legal claims
    Contributed by Victor Insurance Managers and CNA

    Recognize early warning signs—such as financially stressed clients or contractors, unexpected site conditions, and quality disputes—and apply proactive documentation and communication strategies to reduce the likelihood of legal claims.

  • How to get paid
    Contributed by AXA XL’s Design Professional Unit

    Strengthen cash flow and reduce collection risk by improving client screening, billing systems, contract terms, retainers, and consistent follow-up throughout the project lifecycle.

  • Offering free advice: big risks, no pay
    Contributed by Victor Insurance Managers and CNA

    Avoid unintended liability by understanding how casual or unpaid professional advice can shift responsibility, blur contractual roles, and expose architects to legal risk.

  • Practice management problems, pitfalls, and predicaments
    Contributed by Thomas M. Bongi, Esq.

    Spot early behavioral, financial, contractual, and project warning signs that often precede claims—and take corrective action before small issues escalate into costly disputes.

  • Proactive measures for managing risk
    Contributed by Victor Insurance Managers and CNA

    Adopt a forward-looking approach to risk management by systematically assessing project risks, selecting the right work, allocating responsibility strategically, and embedding risk awareness into daily practice. 

 

16.02-04 Liability, risks, and dispute management 

  • You're not invincible: How to prepare for claims
    Contributed by Peter Gifford Longley, AIA, CSI CCS, LEED AP

    Understand the most common causes of professional liability claims—contracts, client selection, team capability, and communication—and apply practical prevention strategies to protect your firm’s reputation and financial stability.

  • Resolving conflicts through mediation
    Excerpted and adapted from “Mediation” by Mark Appel in The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 13th edition

    Explore when mediation is the most effective path for resolving disputes, how to evaluate mediators and readiness, and how early resolution can save time, cost, and long-term relationships. 

  • 12 goals of effective owner-designer agreements
    Contributed by Michael Strogoff, FAIA

    Discover how well-crafted agreements promote collaboration, clarify roles, manage risk, align expectations, and support smoother project delivery and dispute resolution.

  • How to talk to clients about your fees
    Contributed by Michael Strogoff, FAIA

    Learn how to clearly explain fee drivers, communicate value, and structure fee-reduction options to improve transparency, strengthen negotiations, and protect profitability.

  • Keeping your cool with aggressive negotiators
    Contributed by Michael Strogoff, FAIA

    Develop practical strategies for staying composed, recognizing manipulation tactics, protecting your interests, and steering difficult negotiations toward productive outcomes.

  • Owner-architect agreements for small projects
    Contributed by Edward Z. Wronsky Jr., AIA

    Clarify roles, scope, fees, and expectations with simple written agreements that reduce misunderstandings, manage risk, and create a strong foundation for successful small projects.

  • Reviewing a contract: What architects need to know
    Contributed by Victor

    Strengthen contract negotiations by identifying risk, aligning scope, time, and compensation, coordinating design and construction agreements, and avoiding unbalanced or unclear terms.

  • Strategies for negotiating fees
    Contributed by Steven J. Isaacs, Assoc. AIA, and John D. Kidd

    Understand how architects can negotiate fees more effectively by centering client interests while asserting their own, replacing unproductive tactics with a strategic approach that links design integrity, budget control, and firm sustainability.

  • Indemnifying subconsultants: What you need to know
    Contributed by Victor

    Learn how the implicit indemnification of subcontractors has become an explicit clause in some agreements. Architects seeking to eliminate contractual ambiguity should check with their insurer before adding indemnification language, as modeled in the sample below, to an agreement.

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