Architecture firms should take the time to establish meaningful fee collection practices so that they can remain financially solvent. Avoiding fee disputes with clients helps maintain positive working relationships while safeguarding the ability to provide services on future projects, including those of existing clients. Timely collection of fees is essential since architecture firms do not…
Read MoreTopic: Firm management
Do you know? Virtually everything can go wrong!
Welcome to the “new normal” – a seemingly alternate universe where working in an office has become burdensome and employers and employees alike are often at odds as to what a work-life balance looks like. As if the practice of architecture wasn’t complicated enough, our post-pandemic reality challenges firms to adjust to a remote workforce…
Read MoreThe Importance of Employee Benefits for Small Business
For small-business owners, the importance of employee benefits is a significant factor when it comes to attracting and retaining talent. The majority of workers prefer attractive types of employee benefits—like insurance, paid time off, and a retirement plan—more than pay raises. Whether you’re competing for talent or keeping the high performers you already have, small-business…
Read MoreProfessional Liability Safety & Other
Bridging the gap: Navigating the risks and mitigating claims in construction contract administration services
Introduction In recent years, the design industry has experienced a significant disparity in experience levels among the workforce in the field of construction contract administration (CCA) services. With a visible gap between junior staff (1-5 years of experience) and senior staff (10+ years of experience), many firms are finding themselves in a conundrum, compelling less-experienced…
Read MoreESOPs Fable: an overview of what an ESOP is and what should be considered
The Fable A sheepdog getting to the end of her prime working years, was told by the farmer that her final task was to select an appropriate replacement. So, early the next morning, she began her search of the farm for a suitable heir to her position.
Read MoreMoonlighting and Volunteer Services
The Victor and CNA professional liability insurance program does not recommend specific language on “moonlighting.” That is because the situations vary so greatly. The key is for an architecture service firm to have a workable provision in an employee handbook. There are very few instances where an employer is held liable for the actions of…
Read MoreCopyright: Do you know?
Few put copyright at the top of their list of must-haves in contract negotiations. Fewer register documents for copyright protection. Copyright protections under current law exist for you and LegaLine explains more:
Read MoreFinancial planning for women architects
Saving for retirement is important for all architects. This article focuses specifically on unique considerations for women in the profession and pairs with a podcast that can earn listeners 1 learning unit credit in addition to financial advice to keep in mind.
Read MoreWhat’s Next
We’re all trying to figure out what’s next. Whether you’re considering a career move, an investment, or a retirement plan, it’s important to identify alternatives and their potential results – and plan ahead. If you want to make a change – whether it’s heading to the door for a well-deserved retirement or advancing your career…
Read MoreA’22 Roundtable: Practice Innovation
The AIA Center for Practice is hosting a firm roundtable discussion at the AIA Conference in Chicago, Rising Strategies for Practice Innovation, building on sessions held at A’18 and A’19. This extended Friday afternoon session will include presentations, facilitated roundtable discussions, and resources for practice innovation.
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