How can clients be involved in the problem-solving process?

As an architect, you know that problem-solving is a crucial skill for creating functional, aesthetic, and sustainable designs. But how can you involve your clients in this process, and why should you? In this article, we will explore some benefits and strategies for collaborative problem-solving with your clients, and how it can lead to better outcomes and satisfaction.

1 Benefits of client involvement

One of the main benefits of involving your clients in the problem-solving process is that it can help you understand their needs, preferences, and expectations better. By engaging them in dialogue, brainstorming, and feedback, you can gain insights into their vision, values, and goals for the project. This can help you avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and revisions later on, and ensure that your design meets their requirements and desires.

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Sami Zbedeh

Project Architect & BIM Coordinator | Leadership, Cross-functional Coordination | NAAB Accredited
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Involving the client in the problem is part of the solution! It is required to identify the actual problem at begging then discuses the possible solutions with client after understanding the client deliverables recruitments It helps by saving time for both employee and client with the minimum effort without spending times for reports and studying without identifying the real needs of the client.

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2 Strategies for client involvement

If you want to involve your clients in the problem-solving process effectively, you can use several strategies. Ask open-ended questions to understand their problems, challenges, and aspirations in detail. Listen actively by paraphrasing and summarizing what they say, and avoid interrupting or imposing your own solutions. Co-create solutions by inviting your clients to participate in generating and evaluating possible solutions for the project. And communicate clearly by keeping them informed of the progress, challenges, and decisions of the project. Use clear language to explain your design rationale, methods, and results, and utilize visuals or diagrams to illustrate your points. Avoid jargon or technical terms that may be confusing.

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3 Challenges of client involvement

Involving your clients in the problem-solving process can have many benefits, but it can also come with some challenges. Managing expectations is one of them; clients may have unrealistic, vague, or conflicting expectations for the project. To manage this, you need to set clear and realistic goals, scope, and timeline for the project, as well as communicate the trade-offs and risks of any changes. Balancing expertise and input is another challenge; clients may have limited or inaccurate knowledge or experience of the project context. To balance this, you need to educate them on relevant aspects of the project and respect their opinions and values. Handling disagreements or conflicts is yet another challenge; clients may have different communication styles, personalities, or cultures that may affect collaboration. To handle this, you need to establish trust and rapport with your clients and use constructive feedback, negotiation, and compromise skills to resolve any disputes or differences.

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4 Tips for successful client involvement

Involving your clients in the problem-solving process can be an effective way to create designs that meet their needs, expectations, and satisfaction. To make the most of this approach, it is important to define the roles and responsibilities of each party, be flexible and adaptable, and be respectful and professional. Clarify what you expect from your clients and what they can expect from you. Agree on the level and frequency of involvement, communication, and feedback. Establish boundaries and rules for the collaboration. Be prepared to adjust your approach, methods, or solutions based on your clients' feedback, needs, or preferences. Appreciate their diversity and uniqueness. Treat your clients as partners and stakeholders in the project. Acknowledge their contributions, concerns, and emotions. By following these tips, you can enhance your problem-solving and collaboration skills as an architect, and deliver better results for your clients and yourself.

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Michael A. Vidalis, Ph.D.

Founding Principal at VIDALIS ARCHITECTS. Registered Architect, MArch. and Urban [Architectural] Sociologist - Ph.D.
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If we can get the client involved in the design process, he/she will enjoy participating in the creation of architecture; and appreciate the architect's work more. Of course, not all clients or all projects, are suitable for this route.

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5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can clients be involved in the problem-solving process?

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1 Benefits of client involvement

2 Strategies for client involvement

3 Challenges of client involvement

4 Tips for successful client involvement

5 Here’s what else to consider

Architecture

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