DeepResearch for Architects
Architects have questions every day and AI is ideal for getting the answers.
AI Design Assistants
It may be time for small-firm architects to start using AI - or at least get very familiar with what it can do.
Small-Firm Architects and AI in 2025
This post discusses the impact of AI for small-firm architects, particularly after the rise of ChatGPT in 2023, which sparked interest in the technology. The author shares insights gained over the past 18 months, noting the remarkable nature of AI and the mystery surrounding its functioning. Concerns about AI dominating the world appear increasingly unfounded, with the author asserting that its significance will rival that of the Industrial Revolution.
The Six Thinking Hats
This is one easy book that anyone can benefit from, including Architects.
How Do You Calculate Fees?
Learn how to calculate an appropriate fee for nearly any architectural project - large or small.
Thoughts on Getting Paid
Thoughts and advice on small-firm architects’ invoicing methods.
Another Reason Architectural Firms Are Small
Architects need this strategy to grow, endure, and profit.
Downsize Your Accounting
Why your architectural firm cannot afford accounting.
Delegating
Delegating is key to business success. Take my advice on how to do it right.
Organizing Your Files In The Cloud
If you are happy with your way of storing your files, then this won't help you. If not, you may get an idea or two here.
How To Be A Genius At Estimating Costs
Setting up a project costs estimating template pays dividends in productivity and reputation.
REWORK
A really helpful book for everyone, especially Architects.
The Technical Design Diagnostic
The best way to understand what a good design solution requires is NOT to start designing. Try the TDD instead.
How To Design - Schematic Design
This Schematic Design Process has been developed over many projects.
Thoughts On Specifications
The economics of design do not allow for the time it takes to write a specification and assemble a project manual. The solution.
Lessons Learned
How to embed your architectural knowledge into your firm’s process.
Assembly Concept For Organizing Work
Using the ‘assembly’ concept makes organizing much better for many things Architects do.
Do You Have Unique Methods?
All Architects have unique methods. The real benefit comes from documenting them.
Make Your Own Building Code Checklist
Improve your process for meeting building codes. Includes an example.
Graphic Mounting Heights
A graphic mounting height detail can save time and misunderstandings.
Time Concepts
I have studied time management a lot over my career. I needed to. I can slack off with best of them. I’m a natural.
Building Value With Unique Methods
Building a strong business takes more than YOU. It takes processes that anyone can repeat successfully.
Unique Methods Revisited
Architects have unique methods and documenting them is the key to growing.
Kolbe
Why you might want to measure your MO - and those of your design team.
Scheduling And Grouping Design Decisions
Architectural design decisions - when to make them and how to group them for delegation.
Design Phase Checklist Examples
A tool to tell Architects what needs to be done to complete the work of a phase of design.
Keynotes
The reasons why Architects benefit from using keynotes.
The 45 Steps Of Project Management
Week by week list of tasks for project management.
Design Strategy Tool
An Architect’s tool for gaining a quick grasp of the project requirements.