Time is a crucial element that all professionals, particularly design professionals, must manage effectively. Few professions are as bound by strict schedules as architecture and engineering (A/E) firms. Frequently, clients of A/E firms demand and expect their projects to be completed as quickly as possible. Many clients mistakenly believe that A/E firms somehow have control over time—control over the project completion dates. Reality is otherwise, but A/E firms can do a poor job of educating their clients about their inability to control project completion in a timely manner. We have all witnessed project schedules go awry for various reasons. While it may be easy to identify a specific cause, multiple factors often contribute to a delay, making it difficult to pinpoint responsibility.
From the very start of a potential project, time is a significant concern. As owners begin conceptualizing a project, they immediately consider the timelines involved. Owners may face delays in securing funding, selecting a project team, or adhering to deadlines set by others that are non-negotiable. The A/E firm must also contemplate time at the outset of their involvement. Is the proposed schedule realistic? Can they mobilize their staff as required by the schedule. What potential threats could hinder the timeline, such as labor shortages, supply chain issues, permitting problems, or public resistance? Some of these issues are not in the control of the A/E, but the Client may still find reason to put blame on the design firm.
