Practice Management Member Conversations

Greetings! Another fun topic to ponder here. I am lucky enough to have a great staff that has this one dialed in, but I know everyone has a solution for all sizes of firms and teams. 

My thoughts are that the architecture industry has seen a significant shift towards remote and virtual working due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many firms have implemented remote work policies to adhere to social distancing guidelines and ensure the safety of their staff. This has required a rapid adjustment to new tools and technologies to facilitate communication and collaboration in a virtual environment.

One example of this shift is the architecture firm, HOK. They have been utilizing remote working for years and have been able to continue to work efficiently throughout the pandemic. HOK uses various software tools, such as Bluebeam, Revit, and BIM 360, to manage projects remotely and collaborate with clients and colleagues in real-time.

Another example is Gensler, which has embraced virtual reality technology to enhance their design and visualization process. They have created VR experiences that allow clients to virtually walk through their designs and provide feedback in real-time. This has allowed Gensler to continue designing and collaborating with clients even in a remote environment.

In terms of project management, many firms are using cloud-based project management software, such as Asana, Trello, and Basecamp, to manage tasks and communication remotely. This has allowed teams to stay on top of deadlines, assign tasks, and collaborate with team members, even when working remotely.

However, managing remote teams does come with its challenges. Communication and collaboration can be more difficult, and it can be harder to maintain a cohesive team culture. Architecture firms must find ways to balance the benefits of remote work with the need for effective communication and collaboration.

In conclusion, the architecture industry has adapted quickly to the remote working environment and has found new ways to manage projects and collaborate virtually. However, there are still challenges to overcome to maintain effective communication and collaboration in a remote environment.

Thought-provoking question: With the rise of remote and virtual working, what impact will this have on the traditional office model and the way architecture firms design and construct office buildings in the future?