The selection of an architect is one of the most important decisions made in any building project.  Unfortunately, many people who need to select an architect have never done so before.  In order to make the selection process easier, the following criteria has been created.


By Rick Driftmier, AIA

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General Experience

• Does the firm have strong experience in the design of diverse types of projects?
   
• Have they done renovation and expansions as well as new facilities?
   
• Does the firm have the experience and ability to present the project to governmental authorities in order to achieve the desired approvals?

Specific Experience

• Does the firm have specific experience in the type and scope of project that is proposed?
   
• Have previous projects shown not only good design but are they also mechanically sound and functional?
   
• Is the firm flexible enough to understand the difference between your needs and previous projects?

Professional Compatibility

• Does the personality of the architect and staff mesh with your company and staff?
   
• Does the Architect have the ability to be open, responsive, and articulate?

Client References

• Can the architect provide a list of current and past clients who have completed similar projects to yours?
   
• Does the firm have a track record of repeat clients?  Often the best reference is the willingness of clients to use the same architect multiple times.

Technical Skills

• Does the firm exhibit good technical skills as well as artistic sense?
   
• How does the firm rate in qualifications, thoroughness, and responsiveness to owner input?

Administration

• Does the firm have the administrative experience and ability required to complete this project?
   
• Will the principal of the firm personally take a strong interest in the project?
   
• Is there the experience and ability to supervise a construction and warranty process in a capable and firm manner?

Budget Control

• What is the firm's record for completing a project on budget?
   
• Is there a formal procedure to ensure that the design process follows the budget rather than the budget following the design?

Stability

• Does the firm have the history and growth, staff tenure, versatility, flexibility, and consistent quality of design to meet your needs through what could become a lengthy design process?

Architectural Fees

• The architect's fees, while a substantial item, are only a small percentage of the expenditures under the architect's control.  The quality of the service is much more important than the cost.  Doctors and attorneys are usually chosen for the quality of their service and their references.  Architects should be chosen in much the same way.

The most important item to consider when selecting an architect is whether your organization will be able to work well with the architect and the architect's staff.  The effective communication between the client and architect is often what determines a project's success and hence, should be one of the most critical considerations in the selection process.