Technology in Architectural Practice

This message has been cross posted to the following Discussion Forums: Committee of Corporate Architects and Facility Management and Technology in Architectural Practice .
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I've just been approached to work on a project in Africa - I've never worked overseas before and it's not the design or construction work that I'm worried about; I am trying to get information about the Administrative issues such as licensing, insurances, and other protections I need in place to prepare this work...

Any thoughts? 

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Frank Messineo AIA
Solutions Architecture LLC
Newark NJ
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Do just as you would in the USA. Contact the local authorizing agencies, and they will be happy to help you. Be prepared, though, because there is a difference in methodology. For example, zoning ordinances actually include a number of building code language.

When I worked in South Africa, I contacted a local engineering firm, which was able to cut to the chase for me. Of course, you will pay a consulting fee, but it is well worth it.

As I said earlier, things are different. My client had difficulty grasping the concept of allowing gravity to move materials. They would rather use pumps.

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Charles Graham AIA
Architect
O'Neal, Inc.
Greenville SC
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I have had extensive experience working overseas, both Europe and China, and agree with Charles that a local professional contact would be best, because there are different legal requirements in each country, some as in China, require the participation of a regional design institute, that will provide final documentation and meet  permitting requirements, England is particularly difficult to do work in, the local jurisdictions have a lot of power, and are not shy enforcing their desires, again, a local contact that knows the ins and outs of the design boards is a must, not a guarantee of success though! Good luck in your endeavor and adventure.

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Roberto Canessa AIA
Senior Architect
Ballwin MO
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Original Message:
Sent: 01-27-2012 17:01
From: Charles Graham
Subject: Work Overseas


Do just as you would in the USA. Contact the local authorizing agencies, and they will be happy to help you. Be prepared, though, because there is a difference in methodology. For example, zoning ordinances actually include a number of building code language.

When I worked in South Africa, I contacted a local engineering firm, which was able to cut to the chase for me. Of course, you will pay a consulting fee, but it is well worth it.

As I said earlier, things are different. My client had difficulty grasping the concept of allowing gravity to move materials. They would rather use pumps.

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Charles Graham AIA
Architect
O'Neal, Inc.
Greenville SC
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