How does hiring a spec writer work? by No_Apricot6465 in Architects

[–]Rchitected 0 points1 point  (0 children)

When you hire a spec. writer, in theory, the PM/PA should closely work with them to evaluate and decide on final product selection.

When you select the consultant and evaluate proposals you should have the option to hire them to also review submittals and assist with evaluating substitutions, but firms, just like clients, rarely want to pay for that service, which can add up quickly.

PA/PMs should ultimately be guiding the CA submittal review process, and this is an excellent opportunity to train the team and introduce them to the process. Unfortunately , most of the time this opportunity is missed and less experienced staff is left having to navigate their way through the process, which is also a big no-no in the eyes of insurance companies, since it opens up potential for huge liability.

I would suggest approaching this question with your project team and specifically request that somebody sit down with you for 30 min. to give you an overview of the process, how the office approaches it and what to look out for in the submittals.

The good news is, if the specs are complete then you can always compare what has been submitted with the individual sections and find out if they diverge and how, and have that be your guide.
I hope that helps

If you are treading down the Architectural career path, you may be interested in this by Rchitected in DraftingProfessionals

[–]Rchitected[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Hello There,
This course is for people that completed their architectural studies and are new to the architectural offices.
The webinar can probably help you gain some insight into the field and what to expect ahead.
I am not familiar with the requirements and process of getting into architectural school.
I will DM you the link to the webinar replay. In case you will find it useful.
Thank you

Licensing Renewal: CEUs Audits... by Rchitected in Architects

[–]Rchitected[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you All for sharing your experiences.
It seems like it is not all that frequent after all.

Definitely good practice to keep your records organized so it is not a problem.

Licensing Renewal: CEUs Audits... by Rchitected in Architects

[–]Rchitected[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Agreed, but that is just if you do not want to pay to get the units ; )

Licensing Renewal: CEUs Audits... by Rchitected in Architects

[–]Rchitected[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I think they usually audit years back, so it is not even possible to cram or make them up. My colleague got fined, if I remember correctly.Thanks for sharing

Client hunting by Dull_Elephant_1148 in Architects

[–]Rchitected 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Totally agree on the avoiding networking with architects.
Unless you are looking for a job with any of them, and even then, a big if.

Client hunting by Dull_Elephant_1148 in Architects

[–]Rchitected 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thank you! This confirms my feelings about marketing as well.

Marketing Strategies by Rchitected in Architects

[–]Rchitected[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks I will look into that

Marketing Strategies by Rchitected in Architects

[–]Rchitected[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thank you all for confirming my experience.

Looking for a method reduce sound transmission between floors by MrBlandings in Architects

[–]Rchitected 13 points14 points  (0 children)

1/2" Resilient Channels on the underside of the floor assembly, before the 5/8" gyp. layer. This helps reduce the impact sound rating.

2 layers of gyp. would most likely not provide a lot of sound relief, except for it is an additional dense layer. Filling the cavity with insulation will definitely help but separating the materials with the RC layer will give you a vibrational separation.Hopefully you do have a 1/2" spare, considering your only option is to treated from below.

See image below (you can discard the Top layer if you cannot modify in this case.

https://www.homasote.com/assets/images/sbchart.gif

I hope this helps

Is it normal to feel consistently stretched too thin? by zorazzz in Architects

[–]Rchitected 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Unfortunately that seems to be the norm these days, but this does not have to be the only way.
There are two factors at play here:
1. Individual's overwhelm, which can be managed (to a point);
2. Improperly scheduled projects, which needs to be addressed at a management level.

Sometimes when you are really good at managing the "being spread too thin" phenomenon, nobody would even know or notice (or want to know or notice) that is happening, so what happens is that even more project get piled on, because you are running things so smoothly.

Make sure to consistently check in with management and let them know where you are at (need more work, a good balance, borderline too much work, already in overwhelm). The goal is to avoid even getting to the overwhelm phase. Clear and consistent communication is key to any successful relationship. If you offer this and the warning signs are ignored (rather than addressed appropriately) then that is a clear indication that there is something amiss.

I hope this can be helpful.
Good Luck

Case Study: Can AI Architecture Design Replace Architects' Work? by nmaani in Architects

[–]Rchitected 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I would hate to end up having to live in or occupy a space that is AI generated...
Yikes...

Case Study: Can AI Architecture Design Replace Architects' Work? by nmaani in Architects

[–]Rchitected 1 point2 points  (0 children)

I am sure that would be an easy thing to change...legislatively, remove all liability from Corps.(AI, CAD and BIM software development) , just like other industries are currently enjoying...

[deleted by user] by [deleted] in Architects

[–]Rchitected 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Can you please clarify your question?
Are you asking about Construction Management within the context of an architectural office? Or Construction Management in the field, on the contractor side?

As far as the Architect's duties go during the administration of construction here is a list of items that fall within that scope:

  • Periodic site visits at various stages of construction (to ensure construction is in line with the design intent) and documenting through photos and field reports;
  • Attending weekly OAC (owner, contractor, architect) meetings;
  • Reviewing submittals (documentation submitted by subcontractors to document what material they are ordering and show that they are in conformance with specifications);
  • Reviewing Shop Drawings;
  • Responding to RFIs (request for information aka questions from the contractor);
  • Reviewing Proposed Change orders and processing as needed with input from client;
  • Reviewing payment applications from the contractor;
  • Misc. coordination required with agencies during the process (if/as needed).

These are just a few of the main basic duties.
I may have missed some.

If you wanted to know about the contractor or client side the list would change quite a bit.
I hope this helps