Lately, there have been several ongoing discussions about the issue of architect based design vs. non-architect based design - from the ones about what the AIA could do better for us to the ones about legislation requiring architect involvement and so forth.
This article crossed my desk this week:
http://www.remodelersadvantage.com/sell-low-priced-non-compliant-competition/ At the basic level, it reaffirms that there is always going to be someone who is going to come along and undercut you by cutting corners one way or another. And I feel that the advice given there applies to us as well.
Turn the issues around on your client: Yes, my fee is higher than that drafting service that can crank out your plans. That higher cost is because I am licensed by the state; because I am insured in case there are unforeseen issues; because you are paying for my experience based on formal education, experience, and continuing education...
And raise the questions about that drafting service: What guarantees does that service offer you if problems are encountered? If there are issues caused by their design do they have liability insurance to cover the fixes for your project? Are they up to date on all of the local codes?
I agree that we face an uphill battle at times. But as the Chinese proverb states, "A wise man adapts himself to circumstances as water shapes itself to the vessel that contains it."
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Thomas Bank AIA
Owner/Architect
Simply Stated Architecture, P.C.
Lemoyne PA
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