Selecting Your Architect-Engineer (AE)

The selection of an architect-engineering (AE) consultant is one of the most, if not the most significant decisions leading to the successful completion of a project. You select an AE much like you do any other professional based on their:

One addition factor should weigh heavily in your choice and that is compatibility. Good design requires close and frequent communication between the client and the AE so the association between the client and ae needs to be conducted professionally and must be based on mutual trust, understanding, and respect. The AE you select should understand your goals and be in tune with your vision.

Step 1. Identifing your project goals and vision is the first step in the selection process.

When engaging an AE, you should be able to describe the work that is to be done sufficiently that the AE understands the requirements.

Step2: Decide if you want direct appoint an AE or have a formal advertised selection procedure.

Advertised competitive proposals are usually involve larger projects, a clearly defined scope of work and are generally used by larger corporations who have their staff knowledgeable in working with AE’s and who usually have a list compiled. A formal procedure involving proposals and interviews is costly to both to You and the AE and that cost ultimately has to be borne by both. Thus, the formal procedure should be applied only in cases where You need the additional information or data to make a sound decision.

If the client knows an engineering consultant will be suited to the project, a direct appointment is the most efficient manner of selection.

Step 3. Compile a List of Potential firms:

Word-of-mouth is the most common method of compiling a list of AE’s…Friends, relatives and colleagues remember when they have worked with an architect, and have had successful and rewarding experiences and they pass on the horror stories of those that didn’t work out.

Professional Engineering and Architectural Associations, such as the AIA,publish a directory of professionals each year listing. Other companies with recently completed work might also be helpful since they probably went through the same procedure.

Step 4. Narrow Your List.

The professional Associations have developed performance guidelines for their various disciplines which may help you narrow your list.

You can request brochures, review publications about the firm and look at buildings which will show the types and styles of work the AE performs. Review their design philosophy and styles, Select firms whose work matches your requirements. After you have compiled a short list, call each AE and schedule an appointment for an interview.

Step 5. Make Your Selection

In selecting an engineering consultant the following factors should be considered:

Big Firm or Small?

An architectural firm may be composed of a single practitioner, a partnership or a corporation. Firms come in a variety of sizes, but size is not as important as the firm’s capabilities. Some firms have a large staff of engineers, architects, interior designers, and technicians. Others rely on collaborations with independent firms. The size of the firm isn’t necessarily a measure of their ability to do you work. When you select an architect, you should consider not only the individual elements of a firm’s composition, but their collective impact on a firm’s ability to perform the work required. A large firm with poor internal employee relationships will probably not perform as well as a small office who has dozens of collaborative agreements with other small firms. An AE should have a broad knowledge of design and construction, and can work with you on a variety of projects, from remodeling your house to building an office tower.

The interview and follow-up.

During the interview, You should discuss your goals and ideas with the architect.

The AE firm should:

Describe their philosophy of design.

Their firm’s method of work.

Provide areas of specialization.

Their basic approach to your particular design.

You should ask specific questions, such as:

Do you have a list of former clients and recent projects?

How are your abilities best suited to the needs of my project?

What methods do you use to monitor costs and schedule?

What approach will you take in resolving my particular problems?

Which members of your firm will handle this job?

And, You should discuss the architect’s fee.

Finally, and perhaps most important, look around. A thoughtful, well-conceived building or efficiently function plant operation is always an AE’s best form of reference. An architect has the education, training, experience and vision to take you through design and construction from beginning to end. Good design adds to the beauty and lifespan of your building and it’s operation, but it will also work to enhance your community and enrich your life.

AE’s assume responsibility for performing tasks in a competent manner, so that they meet the agreed-upon project objectives, technical requirements and regulations. In the interests of both engineers and clients, the details of the services to be performed should be set out in a formal agreement that has a clear scope of work and sets out the progress and payment terms.

Scope of work: Agree on what work will be done, how it will be done and when it will be done. The AE can probably assist you with the scope of work.

Agree on how much will be paid, how it will be paid and when it will be paid.

Shortchanging on a professional fee will often result in the substitution of less skilled engineers or less time put into the assignment, thus potentially short changing the project. The selection on the basis of price rather than ability does not ensure the best or most economical overall engineering solution. Price selection promotes reduction in services and ultimately may lead to an adversary relationship between the client and consultant to the detriment of the project. Use Professional association guidelines to determine cost norms. Any serious deviation from the norms require closer examination.

Once the agreement is in place. Be a team member. Discuss matters as the work progresses. Tell your AE your concerns or dislikes as they occur. Do not let issues lie unaddressed. Keep an open mind to your AE's suggestions and alternatives. Always perform your role promptly so your AE firm can perform theirs. (i.e. If you are selecting or ordering equipment, do it so it will be available on the agreed upon due date). Keep in mind, the AE is on your team working for your interests.