I recently got asked a question by a structural engineer studying in the field of Structural Engineering. The question was a shocking one, and it made me realize there might be a misconception about what architects really do. The question was: "Do architects use surveyors? Are they not measuring properties themselves?"
It's important to understand that architects have a specific role in the construction process. They are the ones responsible for the aesthetics, functionality, and overall vision of a project. Surveyors, on the other hand, specialize in accurately measuring and mapping the land or property. Both professions are essential in the construction industry, but they have distinct roles and areas of expertise.
Contrary to what some may believe, architects are not surveyors themselves. They have a keen eye for design and bringing ideas to life, although their skills may extend to the technical aspects of surveying.
Now, you might be wondering why architects don't just measure properties themselves. Well, the truth is, that architects often have limited time and resources. They have multiple projects to juggle unless it is a single person doing everything that works on one project at a time. Taking on the role of a surveyor would only add to their responsibilities. By outsourcing surveying tasks to professionals, architects can focus on their core strengths and ensure that their designs are based on accurate and reliable data.
The answer may surprise you, but it is a definite yes! Architects do use surveyors, and there is a good reason behind it. You see, architectural companies often outsource certain tasks that they can't handle alone in order to Grow and Scale.
So, what can be done to address this misconception? Here are three potential solutions:
Clear Communication: Clients need to be advised wisely and competently on their needs to include a surveyor in the process and that if architects are to do the survey themselves what is the architect's hourly rate and if this is even worth going this route, exception, of course, are low-cost architects whose rates are lower than surveyors rates, it's all about the cost of work.
Collaboration: Architectural firms should actively seek to collaborate with other professionals in the early stages of a project. By involving surveyors from the start, architects can ensure that the design is based on accurate measurements and avoid potential setbacks later on.
Education: It is important for architectural schools and programs to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the roles and responsibilities of different professionals in the construction industry. Educating students about the importance of working in a Team and how this can help them grow their Architectural Brand, to foster better collaboration and avoid misconceptions in the future.
In conclusion, it is essential for both professions to work together to achieve successful construction projects and avoid burnout or low-paid work.
The misconception that architects must measure properties themselves is unfounded because no medium or large architectural companies send their architects to actually do the measurements they have more important tasks to do and their knowledge and expertise are way above the level of running around with laser measurement tools and sketching plans, this can lead to a low-skilled worker being in direct competition with someone who has spent years on education.
Peter Bauman
SpaceSurvey
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