In the complex construction ecosystem, the relationship between an architectural firm and the General Contractor (GC) is the backbone of project success. While the architect designs the vision, the GC brings it to life. But what exactly happens in the hand-off?
Beyond just providing blueprints, a full-service architectural firm offers a suite of critical support tasks that ensure the GC has the information, legal clearance, and oversight needed to build safely and efficiently.
At Assetsoft, we understand that delivering these services requires precision. We help architectural firms undergo digital transformation by implementing the technology needed to provide these essential services faster, more accurately, and with improved collaboration.
Here is a look at the typical scope of services an architectural firm provides for construction projects, and where technology can make a difference.
1. From Concept to Constructible Reality
Before a shovel hits the ground, the architect acts as the translator of the client’s vision into a language the contractor can speak.
- Existing Conditions & Field Measuring: The process often begins with field measuring to document the existing space. Accurate drawings of current conditions are the foundation for everything that follows.
- The Design Phases:
- Schematic Design: Establishing the general scope and conceptual design.
- Design Development: Expanding concepts into detailed drawings that show correct room sizes, shapes, and material specifications.
- Construction Documents: This is the critical hand-off. The architect prepares detailed working drawings and specifications that the Contractor uses to establish costs and physically build the project. These documents effectively become part of the construction contract.
The Assetsoft Edge:Transitioning from CAD to BIM (Building Information Modeling) enables architects to provide GCs with a 3D model rather than just 2D lines. Assetsoft helps firms implement BIM standards that reduce clashes before they reach the field.
2. Bidding and Negotiation Support
Finding the right builder is an art in itself. Architectural firms often assist the Owner during the bidding phase.
- Bid Packages: Architects can prepare bidding documents, invitations to bid, and instructions to bidders.
- Contract Support: They help outline the conditions of the contract and the form of agreement between the Owner and the Contractor.
3. Construction Administration: The "Boots on the Ground."
Once construction begins, the architect doesn't disappear. They enter the Construction Administration phase, serving as observers and advisors.
- Site Visits: The architect visits the site to observe progress and determine if the project is being built according to plans and specifications.
- Financial Oversight: They often review and approve the Contractor's applications for payment to ensure billing matches the work completed.
- Change Orders: When plans change (as they always do), the architect processes change orders to keep the project moving and the owner informed.
The Assetsoft Edge:Mobile project management tools allow architects to log site reports, approve payments, and issue RFI (Request for Information) responses instantly from the field. Assetsoft integrates these tools to minimize downtime for the GC.
4. The Crucial Review: Shop Drawings
One of the most technical services provided is Shop Drawing Review. While architects give the "big picture" design, contractors and manufacturers produce shop drawings to explain the fabrication and installation of specific items.
- Fabrication Details: These drawings cover pre-fabricated components like trusses, cabinetry, millwork, windows, and elevators.
- MEP Coordination: Critical reviews are performed for mechanical, electrical, and plumbing trades, such as ductwork and fire protection piping.
- Design Intent: The architect reviews these detailed manufacturer drawings to ensure they integrate correctly with the overall design, bridging the gap between a design concept and a manufactured reality.
5. Expediting and Compliance
Contractors cannot build without permission. Architects often shoulder the burden of expediting the preparation of the necessary applications for filing with local municipalities.
- Code Compliance: Architects verify that designs comply with building codes.
- Permit Management: They manage the flow of paperwork, securing the approvals required for the GC to operate legally.
How Assetsoft Accelerates Architectural Delivery
The list of services above represents a massive amount of data, communication, and coordination. If manual processes bog down an architectural firm, the General Contractor waits, and in construction, time is money.
Assetsoft acts as a consulting partner to architectural firms, helping them adopt the technologies that streamline these exact services:
- Automated Workflow Implementation: We help automate the RFI and Submittal review process, cutting down turnaround times for Shop Drawings.
- Project Management Systems: We implement and train teams on software that keeps construction documents, change orders, and payment applications in one synchronized cloud environment.
- Data-Driven Design: We assist in setting up systems where "Existing Conditions" and "As-Built" data are captured using laser scanning and point clouds, reducing errors for the GC.
By optimizing their internal technology and architecture, architectural firms can stop drowning in paperwork and start delivering faster, higher-quality results for their General Contractor partners.
