Pub. 1 2013 Directory

10 THE MONTANA ARCHITECT | 2013 | www.aia-mt.org H ow to Select an AIA Architect Just as in selecting a partner for any other ma- jor undertaking in life, it is important to find an architect who is a good match with your goals, your concept of the project, your personality and your budget. Choosing the right person from the start allows you to enjoy the process as much as the finished product. The following steps in the selection process can make all the difference in creating a successful partnership. Step 1 Make a list of potential firms and solicit information from them. Colleagues and acquaintances who have worked with architects are excellent resources, as is the Montana Chapter of the American In- stitute of Architects: www.aia-mt.org , or this magazine that includes a complete membership list. Create a list of 12-15 architects/firms. Contact those on your list and ask for information, qualifications and references. If you are ready to share a preliminary proposal, send a written description of your project to help them in the process. Find out how the architect charges for services and ask about additional expenses that could occur as the project moves ahead. Step 2 Evaluate your finalists. Consider your candidates’ track records in general, as well as their direct experience with projects similar to your own. Determine who can best complete the project within your time- frame and budget. If possible, visit a few projects designed by your finalists. There’s nothing like looking at the actual work of a candidate to decide whether you are a match. Step 3 Narrow your list down to two or three final contenders to interview for the job. See whether your personalities mesh, as well as your con- cepts for the project. Clarify the proposed schedule, fee structure and areas of responsibility. Step 4 At this point, you will probably have a good idea who is your leading candidate. To double-check your instincts, make a checklist. Look at relevant experience, technical competence, budget considerations and time frame. Finally, review the interview in your mind. Did the architect really listen to what you were saying? Did she ask the right questions? Did she offer reasonable solutions? Above all, did you feel comfortable with the architect? 25 KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR ARCHITECT Every architecture firm brings its own combination of skills, ex- pertise, interests and values to its projects. The challenge is to find the one that most closely meets with your project’s needs. Here are some crucial questions to address when meeting with a prospective architect: Experience • What is your design philosophy? • What sets your firm apart from other architects with similar experience? • Do you have experience with the building type and size of my project? • Will you share with me a portfolio of similar projects and provide a list of client references? FROM THE AIA MONTANA OFFICE CONNIE DEMPSTER, EXECUTIVE SECRETARY