Brian Murray’s Post

If you want to build a house and you hire an architect, he will charge you first for the design and then for the construction. Often you hire one architect for the design and another for the construction. In software we don't usually do that, we always sell design and execution as part of the same package. I think this should change and we should start selling the phases of a project separately. 1. Gives you a quick win with the customer and generates more engagement 2. Reduced scope means more clarity for you and the stakeholders 3. It helps the team improve and focus on planning first

The Dos and Don'ts of Approaching Architects DON’T: Underestimate the value of creating genuine and honest relationships. Architects who see you as a friend will be more responsive to your products and suggestions. DO: Know your stuff! This doesn’t just apply to your product, although you certainly should prioritise all those details, too. Your knowledge should extend from your product to competing products, market trends, code updates, preferences and anything in between. You can stay informed about the latest updates on websites, like ArchitectureAU. DON'T: Attempt to control the design process over architects and designers. Respect their autonomy and creative control over their work. Collaboration is essential but, understand that there are many factors to go into the decision-making process and you may not be aware of them all. DO: Communicate primarily via email rather than phone calls. Emails allow architects and designers the time to process information and respond at their convenience. Too many unwanted phone calls can end in the architect never reaching out. Or worse, telling their colleagues also not to call. DON'T: Overwhelm architects and designers with unnecessary automated email updates. Limit communications to essential information, such as the introduction of new products and important technical updates. Too many irrelevant updates may deter architects from engaging with your emails in the future. Think smart about your email communications and use data to understand if the right people are engaging with them. If not, try something new!

Architects: I’m a fraud. Everything I tell you is a lie. Just keep doing what you’re doing. Just kidding 😂 But that’s what a few architects want me to tell you… The same architects that: → just want to be told that everything they’re doing and everything they’ve ever done is perfect. → think the “way it’s always been done” is the only way to get something done. → are now looking to retroactively justify all of their past and current beliefs. Of course, the only lie is the one that you tell yourself. → When I say “Design isn’t your differentiator” that doesn’t mean design doesn’t matter. → When I say that architects don’t get business education, that doesn’t mean that an architecture degree sucks. → When I say “all-nighters are bad” that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t work hard. I get it. I post a lot. And it’s easy to take things out of context. But here’s the deal: → If you’re looking for someone to tell you that all you need is a portfolio of pretty pictures, I’m not your guy. → If you’re looking for someone to tell you that you’re doing everything right, I’m not your guy. → If you’re looking for someone that praises starchitects and tells you to do what they do, I’m not your guy. Basically, if you want to follow someone that just reinforces all of your beliefs and tells you that you shouldn’t change anything and what you’re doing is perfect, then don’t follow me. You won’t like me very much. ✌️ (If you’re looking for that, then there are plenty others that will just tell you what you want to hear. Go follow them instead.) But… If you’re open to change… If you want your ideas challenged… If you’re tired of the way things are… If you want to learn from other industries… If you believe there’s room for improvement… And if you’re focused on getting a little better every day… Then welcome aboard and hey, my name is Tyler 👋 I have a weekly newsletter that 5,000+ ambitious architects read every week. Join for free at Growthitect(dot)com/join 🙂

What's the Cost of Employing an Architect? Hiring an architect is a significant step in bringing your architectural dreams to life, whether it's designing your dream home, renovating a space, or conceptualising a public building. While architects offer invaluable expertise and creative insights, it's crucial to understand the costs associated with employing our services. In this post, we'll delve into the various factors that influence the cost of hiring use as your architect. 1. Architectural Fees: As architects we typically charge fees based on the scope of the project. These fees encompass a range of services, including initial consultations, design development, construction documentation, and project management. The complexity and scale of your project directly impact the cost. Larger and more intricate projects tend to have higher architectural fees. 2. Project Size: The size of your project is a significant determinant of architectural costs. Larger projects generally involve more time, effort, and resources, which naturally leads to higher fees. Smaller projects, on the other hand, may have more affordable architectural costs. 3. Project Duration: The duration of your project directly affects architectural costs. Longer projects with extended design and construction phases will naturally result in higher fees. Architects will invest more time and effort in lengthy projects, which is reflected in the cost. 4. Collaboration: Collaborating with an architect from the early stages of a project can be cost-effective. Architects can provide valuable input in the initial design phases, helping you make decisions that optimize the project's cost, functionality, and aesthetics. Their involvement can lead to savings in the long term. 5. Scope of Work: The range of services an architect provides impacts the cost. Depending on your project's needs, the architect's scope of work may include initial design, construction documents, obtaining necessary permits, and overseeing the construction process. The more services required, the higher the cost will be. When considering architectural services, it's essential to have a transparent discussion about fees, scope, and expectations to ensure a successful and budget-conscious project. Remember that investing in a skilled architect can be the key to achieving your architectural vision. Why not give us a call today to discuss !

Architects that don't value their expertise: - Regularly allow scope creep - Don't pursue overdue invoices - Are disrespected by clients - Accept low profit margins - Take on every project Architects that value their expertise: - Are comfortable with saying no - Only work with respectful clients - Always charge for work beyond scope - Freeze work when invoices are overdue - Work on fewer projects with better clients What would you add?

Why did the computer start working with architects? Because it wanted to "build" its skills! 🚀 Build Your Vision with ViljieCo's Support for Architects! 🏛️💻 Are you an architect striving for seamless design processes and efficient project management? We know your creativity and productivity rely on reliable technology and smooth digital workflows. 💻 Why Choose ViljieCo for Computer Support? Uninterrupted Design Workflow: We ensure your design software and tools, like AutoCAD and Revit, run smoothly, allowing you to focus on creating stunning architectural designs without tech disruptions. Efficient Project Management: Are you handling multiple projects and client presentations? We optimize your systems for quick and efficient project tracking, collaboration, and management. Data Security: Your design files and client data are critical. ViljieCo provides robust cybersecurity to protect your work and client information from threats. 24/7 Support: Whether working on a tight deadline or late-night design inspiration strikes, our round-the-clock support is there to assist you. Customized Solutions: ViljieCo understands the unique needs of architectural firms. We tailor our support to fit your specific workflows and project goals. 📞 Ready to Build Your Vision with Precision? Contact ViljieCo today at www.viljieco.co.za, and let's discuss how our computer support services can empower your architectural practice!

🏢 Architects: Each project is unique—and it’s OK to talk about how tough that is. As architects, we know that every project is a unique puzzle, so it’s inevitable that some things won’t go as planned. Whether it’s a delay with materials, unexpected site conditions, or changes in regulations—there are always factors beyond our control. What truly matters is how we handle these challenges. But here’s the thing: it’s OK to acknowledge these bumps. Our clients are paying us to help them navigate these challenges. Here are three key strategies you can implement to ensure your client feels informed and confident throughout the process: 1️⃣Better client onboarding Start by setting expectations from day one. Be clear about the possibility of changes and hurdles, and outline the steps you’ll take to address them. Giving clients a realistic view of the journey upfront builds trust and mitigates potential surprises down the line. 2️⃣Client dashboard for real-time updates Give your clients access to a simple, easy-to-use dashboard where they can stay updated with the latest information. This ensures they are always in the loop and helps reduce misunderstandings. Transparency is key, and a dashboard gives them real-time insights into timelines, decisions, and progress. 3️⃣Consistent, proactive communication The key to managing challenges is staying ahead of them. Keep your clients informed every step of the way—don’t wait for them to ask questions. Proactive updates and clear explanations ensure clients feel confident, even when things don’t go as planned. 🔑 The takeaway? The complexities of our work make us valuable, but how we handle them is what sets us apart. Simplifying the process for our clients builds trust and makes the journey smoother for everyone. 💬 How do you approach communicating challenges with your clients? I’d love to hear your strategies! _____________________ Hi, 👋🏻 I'm Evelyn Lee, FAIA | NOMA I've been on the client side for over a decade and have spent the last five years in tech, helping create exceptional employee experiences while growing the business. Now, I help architects: ⇒ Think Differently ⇒ Redefine Processes ⇒ Create Opportunities

Why did the computer start working with architects? Because it wanted to "build" its skills! 🚀 Build Your Vision with ViljieCo's Support for Architects! 🏛️💻 Are you an architect striving for seamless design processes and efficient project management? We know your creativity and productivity rely on reliable technology and smooth digital workflows. 💻 Why Choose ViljieCo for Computer Support? Uninterrupted Design Workflow: We ensure your design software and tools, like AutoCAD and Revit, run smoothly, allowing you to focus on creating stunning architectural designs without tech disruptions. Efficient Project Management: Are you handling multiple projects and client presentations? We optimize your systems for quick and efficient project tracking, collaboration, and management. Data Security: Your design files and client data are critical. ViljieCo provides robust cybersecurity to protect your work and client information from threats. 24/7 Support: Whether working on a tight deadline or late-night design inspiration strikes, our round-the-clock support is there to assist you. Customized Solutions: ViljieCo understands the unique needs of architectural firms. We tailor our support to fit your specific workflows and project goals. 📞 Ready to Build Your Vision with Precision? Contact ViljieCo today at www.viljieco.co.za, and let's discuss how our computer support services can empower your architectural practice!

How do architects charge their fees? Are you curious about how architects set their fees? Architects typically use one of these three main pricing structures, tailored to the project’s scope, complexity, and client needs: 1. Hourly Rates: For projects with an undefined scope or ongoing changes, architects often charge by the hour. This approach offers flexibility and covers each hour of work as needed. Hourly rates can vary depending on the firm, location, and project type. It’s ideal for feasibility studies or smaller projects where the deliverables may evolve over time. 2. Percentage of Construction Cost: For well-defined projects, architects may charge a fee based on a percentage (usually from as low as 2.5% to 15%) of the total construction cost. This model aligns the architect’s fee with the scale of the project, allowing for adjustments if costs change. It’s commonly used for larger projects and provides transparency as the project progresses. 3. Fixed Fees: A fixed, lump-sum fee is used when the project scope is very clear from the start. This structure offers certainty for both the client and architect, as the total cost is agreed upon upfront. However, if the project scope changes significantly, the fee may need to be renegotiated. Architect fees can vary widely and are mostly affected by competition and undercutting in some regions, therefore understanding each option can help you budget confidently and choose the right fit! As an architect, which fee structure sounds most suitable for your project? P.S. If you are ever considering a project and wondering which fee structure might be best, contact your nearest local architect.

Attention Architects! 📐💻 In a world where precision is paramount, your IT infrastructure must be as robust as the blueprints. Here's why top-quality IT services are essential for architects: 1️⃣ Streamline your processes with tailored IT solutions. 2️⃣ Safeguard your valuable intellectual property and client data. 3️⃣ Impress clients with high-quality presentations and communication. 4️⃣ Make informed decisions about hardware investments. 5️⃣ Trust in managed IT services. Precision and reliability are key—read more in this month's blog post! 👇