The Value of Professional Services

To all young and graduate architects, engineers, and construction technologists who inspire both on social media and on-site:

Do not sell yourselves short by offering free design ideas to those who request them here.

You wouldn't see lawyers or doctors offering free advice, so why should you? Many of you, particularly those who studied architecture, have invested as much time, if not more, in your education as lawyers and doctors. You've worked hard for your qualifications and to hone your skills, so don't feel pressured to undervalue your investment or expertise. Professionals who provide useful services often charge for them, and so should you.

Your ideas are your currency. Value them enough to charge for them. If your ideas aren't valuable enough to charge for, then they shouldn't be given away for free. Your ideas should be shared with those who recognize and appreciate your worth by paying for your services, not with those who exploit your generosity.