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The Practice Management Knowledge Community (PMKC) identifies and develops information on the business of architecture for use by the profession to maintain and improve the quality of the professional and business environment.  The PMKC initiates programs, provides content and serves as a resource to other knowledge communities, and acts as experts on AIA Institute programs and policies that pertain to a wide variety of business practices and trends.

    

  • 1.  Supplemental Dues

    Posted 02-03-2016 05:02 PM

    Now that it is the time of year for AIA renewals I would be interested on thoughts about supplemental dues from other members who live in state's which place these upon business owners. I have strong views on this but would like to hear from others before I share mine to get some unbiased opinions.

    Thanks!

    Nea May Poole, AIA

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    Nea Poole AIA
    Principal
    Poole & Poole Architecture, LLC
    Midlothian VA
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  • 2.  RE: Supplemental Dues

    Posted 02-04-2016 05:46 PM
    Nea:

    I was a Board Member in 2007 when we ended the practice of Supplemental Dues for National.  Supplemental dues was intended to encourage firms to help their employees with AIA dues, since members received a credit for firm members who were members.  

    In theory, it may be a good idea.  In practice, it probably is not, since it is hard to verify the number of firm members eligible for membership and people aren't always forthcoming with accurate information.

    I view this as a value proposition.  If the component provides value commensurate with the cost of regular dues, then why not raise those slightly across the board?  People who receive value rarely question the amount they are paying.  It's when the cost is greater than the value that problems arise.

    Walter Hainsfurther, FAIA
    Design Team, LLC
    Highland Park, IL 





  • 3.  RE: Supplemental Dues

    Posted 02-04-2016 06:00 PM

    Walter J. Hainsfurther FAIA said: "It's when the cost is greater than the value that problems arise."

    Truer words were never spoken. Problems also arise when the cost is not perceived as optional. The Los Angeles Chapter's website says, "Supplemental dues of $115.00 per each licensed architect employee apply to firm principals, owners or managers in the second year & thereafter...", implying that principals must pay the $115 per licensed architect employee or they lose their membership. I imagine that such a cost would feel like extortion.

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    Sean Catherall AIA
    Herriman UT