Six common challenges architects are facing in projects

Architects work on a wide spectrum of projects and each project is unique and provides new challenges and opportunities. And all projects still share some common challenges regardless of the type of project. Six of these common challenges are:

MANAGING AND TRACKING THE PROJECT TEAM >>

The lead architect does not work alone, especially on a larger project. A solid and talented team must support the architect. Coordination, collaboration and communication among teammates is critical. Managing and tracking a project team is challenging. However, it is facilitated by utilizing some of the current popular collaboration tools.

ACHIEVING EFFECTIVE CLIENT COMMUNICATION >>

Architects often encounter problems communicating ideas to their clients. This may be due to different languages and/or because the client is not entirely sure of the result they desire and is unable to put into words what they want for the project.

The architect must work with the client to take vague words, phrases and ideas and transform those descriptors into a visual depiction of the project. Using 3D visualization through 3D rendering software helps, but there still can be a lot of back and forth between the architect and client. Effective communication will be essential throughout the process for visualization.

DEALING WITH STRESS FROM DEADLINES AND TIGHT BUDGETS >> Stress is very debilitating and 41% of stressed workers say stress causes a loss in productivity. Projects with strict deadlines and a very tight budget produces pressure and stress. Being organized is the key to keep a project on track and to find solutions to stay within the budget. Fortunately, there are time and tracking apps to help manage the project deadlines and budget.

BEING PROACTIVE TO DEAL WITH PROBLEMS >>

The architect must be vigilant in avoiding errors and omissions in architectural design because of the potential devastating effects on the project if they are overlooked. This challenge presents another opportunity to use technology to assist in identifying any potential mistakes, and to be able to proactively correct mistakes and deal with problems before they even arise.

KEEPING CURRENT ON NEW HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE >>

An exponential growth of technology

AND SOFTWARE SOLUTIONS HAVE BEEN DEVELOPED AND CAN BE DEPLOYED TO ASSIST THE ARCHITECT. IT IS DIFFICULT TO STAY CURRENT AND KNOWLEDGEABLE ABOUT ALL THE NEW TECHNOLOGIES AVAILABLE FOR ARCHITECTS, BUT ARCHITECTS MUST COMMIT TO KEEP INFORMED ABOUT THEM.

TAKING TIME FOR REFLECTION >> Another major challenge for architects is taking a step back from handling their projects. Deadlines, budget constraints, communication issues and more can make it exceptionally difficult to come up with great design. So, it is often necessary to take a step back and take time to rest and reflect to be full of fresh, innovative ideas and to gain a new perspective to be more productive and efficient.

CLOSING THOUGHT >> Architects face many challenges each day. It is imperative that architects learn how to face and overcome those challenges and to use the insights gained to design and develop successful projects.

“Adversity is life’s change agent trying to help us improve and make wiser decisions in this life.” Dr. Asa Don Brown, author, speaker, professor & clinician.

Glenn Ebersole is a registered professional engineer and is the Director of Business Development at JL Architects, a West Chester-based architectural firm serving clients locally, regionally and nationally. He can be reached at gebersole@