Practice Management Member Conversations

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

I apologize for being the big dummy here, but I feel like you learn by asking. 

I am familiar with ChatGPT.  But what is out there that does architectural AI?  I am reading into this thread that there is some AI  program(s) that do rendering or presentation style AI design?  Surely, there aren't any doing detailing or other more project specific design?  What is a program or programs I should be familiar with or should know about to better understand what the architectural AI movement is all about? 

And, yes I have googled the issue, but I apparently don't know enough to find adequate information.

Bob "I am starting to feel old" Smith

------------------------------
Robert Smith AIA
Talley & Smith Architecture, Inc.
Shelby NC
------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 04-25-2024 12:42 PM
From: Michael L. Katzin AIA
Subject: AI... Go!

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

------------------------------
Michael Katzin, AIA
Michael Katzin Project Services, LLC
Johns Creek, GA
Member - Johns Creek Planning Commission

Bob - I think one side effect of Artificial Intelligence (particularly due to the rapidity with which it's potential & reach is expanding) is that a lot of people will feel left behind.  So I asked ChatGPT for some funny puns about that - you be the judge. I like the last one best.

1. "I asked my friend if he knew how A.I. could help with architecture and design, and he said 'I guess it's all just A.I. to me!'"
2. "People who don't understand the power of A.I. in architecture and design are just A.I.-gnorant!"
3. "I told my coworker about the benefits of using A.I. in our design process, and he replied, 'Sounds A.I.-mazing, but I'm still in the dark!'"
4. "When it comes to A.I. in architecture and design, some people are A.I.-dentity crisis!"
5. "I tried explaining the capabilities of A.I. for our architectural projects, but my colleague just said 'I A.I.-n't got a clue!'"

But seriously, YES, there are people doing amazing things with renderings and presentations. My impression is that began with people generating new images from descriptions - I used Discord/MidJourney until they stopped letting me do so for free, now I use Craiyon but don't like it as much, and have dabbled in perchance.org/ai-photo-generator; there a bunch of others, a few free at least to try it.

But, as in follow-the-money, I see things quickly shifting to programs that plug in to the major architectural softwares such as revit and sketchup, which take a rudimentary massing model of your design and amp it way up based on your verbal descriptions (like, make this box look like a house designed by Renzo Piano but set in the jungle).  main one I know of it Veras AI, but there are many others.  They seem to be priced so that mid-and large firms will sign up for several variations of these programs but micro-practices like me that need this only a couple times a year can't swing it.

To your "surely they are doing any detailing or design" question - um, yes.  And definitely in the future. Testfit.io generates multiple iterations of floor plans based on your programming parameters and site restrictions for large buildings. Blueprints-ai.com advertises to homeowners that they are "here to streamline the architectural and engineering process for you. Our platform utilizes advanced AI technology to produce high-quality construction documents, giving you the peace of mind you deserve" and tells architects that "By integrating state-of-the-art AI and smart design, our platform can help you save time, minimize errors, and elevate the quality of your work".

I have read many architects opining on how AI will save them the drudgery of their jobs and allow them to spend more time on doing a better job or just doing what they love.  I am significantly more skeptical - given economic realities of competition, we will just have less work to do and less time to do it in for smaller fees. The clients may or may not save money, but a bigger share of the pie will go to the AI software business owners. That said, the revolution is here, so if you want to eat cake instead of have your head roll, don't hold tight to your sailboat while everyone else is flying rocketships.  mixed metaphor, sorry.

3 of my questions:

1. What specific policies has anyone put in place/considering about AI use?
2. Seems like there are so many AI programs - how many are you using and is it impacting your I.T. Budget?
3. Why aren't you using more AI? 

I apologize for being the big dummy here, but I feel like you learn by asking. 

I am familiar with ChatGPT.  But what is out there that does architectural AI?  I am reading into this thread that there is some AI  program(s) that do rendering or presentation style AI design?  Surely, there aren't any doing detailing or other more project specific design?  What is a program or programs I should be familiar with or should know about to better understand what the architectural AI movement is all about? 

And, yes I have googled the issue, but I apparently don't know enough to find adequate information.

Bob "I am starting to feel old" Smith

------------------------------
Robert Smith AIA
Talley & Smith Architecture, Inc.
Shelby NC


Original Message:
Sent: 04-25-2024 12:42 PM
From: Michael L. Katzin AIA
Subject: AI... Go!

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

------------------------------
Michael Katzin, AIA
Michael Katzin Project Services, LLC
Johns Creek, GA
Member - Johns Creek Planning Commission

Bob - I think one side effect of Artificial Intelligence (particularly due to the rapidity with which it's potential & reach is expanding) is that a lot of people will feel left behind.  So I asked ChatGPT for some funny puns about that - you be the judge. I like the last one best.

1. "I asked my friend if he knew how A.I. could help with architecture and design, and he said 'I guess it's all just A.I. to me!'"
2. "People who don't understand the power of A.I. in architecture and design are just A.I.-gnorant!"
3. "I told my coworker about the benefits of using A.I. in our design process, and he replied, 'Sounds A.I.-mazing, but I'm still in the dark!'"
4. "When it comes to A.I. in architecture and design, some people are A.I.-dentity crisis!"
5. "I tried explaining the capabilities of A.I. for our architectural projects, but my colleague just said 'I A.I.-n't got a clue!'"

But seriously, YES, there are people doing amazing things with renderings and presentations. My impression is that began with people generating new images from descriptions - I used Discord/MidJourney until they stopped letting me do so for free, now I use Craiyon but don't like it as much, and have dabbled in perchance.org/ai-photo-generator; there a bunch of others, a few free at least to try it.

But, as in follow-the-money, I see things quickly shifting to programs that plug in to the major architectural softwares such as revit and sketchup, which take a rudimentary massing model of your design and amp it way up based on your verbal descriptions (like, make this box look like a house designed by Renzo Piano but set in the jungle).  main one I know of it Veras AI, but there are many others.  They seem to be priced so that mid-and large firms will sign up for several variations of these programs but micro-practices like me that need this only a couple times a year can't swing it.

To your "surely they are doing any detailing or design" question - um, yes.  And definitely in the future. Testfit.io generates multiple iterations of floor plans based on your programming parameters and site restrictions for large buildings. Blueprints-ai.com advertises to homeowners that they are "here to streamline the architectural and engineering process for you. Our platform utilizes advanced AI technology to produce high-quality construction documents, giving you the peace of mind you deserve" and tells architects that "By integrating state-of-the-art AI and smart design, our platform can help you save time, minimize errors, and elevate the quality of your work".

I have read many architects opining on how AI will save them the drudgery of their jobs and allow them to spend more time on doing a better job or just doing what they love.  I am significantly more skeptical - given economic realities of competition, we will just have less work to do and less time to do it in for smaller fees. The clients may or may not save money, but a bigger share of the pie will go to the AI software business owners. That said, the revolution is here, so if you want to eat cake instead of have your head roll, don't hold tight to your sailboat while everyone else is flying rocketships.  mixed metaphor, sorry.

3 of my questions:

1. What specific policies has anyone put in place/considering about AI use?
2. Seems like there are so many AI programs - how many are you using and is it impacting your I.T. Budget?
3. Why aren't you using more AI? 

I apologize for being the big dummy here, but I feel like you learn by asking. 

I am familiar with ChatGPT.  But what is out there that does architectural AI?  I am reading into this thread that there is some AI  program(s) that do rendering or presentation style AI design?  Surely, there aren't any doing detailing or other more project specific design?  What is a program or programs I should be familiar with or should know about to better understand what the architectural AI movement is all about? 

And, yes I have googled the issue, but I apparently don't know enough to find adequate information.

Bob "I am starting to feel old" Smith

------------------------------
Robert Smith AIA
Talley & Smith Architecture, Inc.
Shelby NC


Original Message:
Sent: 04-25-2024 12:42 PM
From: Michael L. Katzin AIA
Subject: AI... Go!

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

------------------------------
Michael Katzin, AIA
Michael Katzin Project Services, LLC
Johns Creek, GA
Member - Johns Creek Planning Commission

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

I really like your approach to the concept and implementation here. How have you seen for good guidance as to best implement policy for a firm to use certain AI platforms? Is it more of restrictive approach to limit what it can be used for or more guidance as to what can be used to produce instruments of service? 

I really like your approach to the concept and implementation here. How have you seen for good guidance as to best implement policy for a firm to use certain AI platforms? Is it more of restrictive approach to limit what it can be used for or more guidance as to what can be used to produce instruments of service? 

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.

I'll go one step further and say that a firm should identify a problem to solve and then determine if there is an AI (or other) solution available to solve it.

The key to AI right now is experimentation and flexibility. The number and types of tools are growing exponentially, and a tool that you like today could be obsolete in a few months or weeks. Because of that, you'll want a select group of people tasked with experimenting with various tools before rolling them out in a controlled manner. And, of course, you'll need policies around the use of AI in the firm for many of the same reasons already mentioned here.

From my viewpoint, AI is valuable for handling redundant tasks. GPT can do a lot of this with about 60-70% accuracy, which means an employee is spending less time fine-tuning the output than starting from scratch. This can be used for writing letters/emails, searching/summarizing documents, writing policies/procedures, and creating meeting agendas and/or meeting minutes. The design rendering tools look good but are only conceptual, and construction drawings are not yet there. So, for now, AI is here to assist us, not replace us.

This is a current and growing real time practice changer and needs to be approached with caution to avoid unintended ramifications when applying new AI platforms. One perspective being discussed is that architectural AI platforms should not be implemented in a firm unless there is a specific goal of a purpose for using it.  Meaning, don't use it just because it is there and can be used to develop fantastical designs that may have no social, environmental, site, etc., considerations or meet a firms goals of practice. 

A firm should identify a clear purpose for applying architectural AI before letting their awesome computer-oriented designers and architects blast off with these platforms. If used for competitions, if you win it can your firm really execute the cool image developed by architectural AI?

Another point in discussions related to liability is how will architectural AI developed documents (instruments of service) be considered in issues where a standard of care issue arises on a project that ties back to AI........we do not know yet. So again, have a clear purpose for applying architectural AI in architectural practice.  And finally, a firms practice and QA/QC policies will need to be updated when the use and issues about architectural AI come to light.