2 - PjM Flashcards
how many questions are in the PjM division on the NCARB exam?
75
how much time do you have on the PjM exam?
3 hr
if you set aside ___ minutes for each of the case study problems, that leaves about ___ for the other items
5, 1
what is the main topic for module 1 as well as the 2 areas of focus?
resource management
- determine criteria required to assemble team
- assess criteria required to allocate & manage project resources
what is the target % for module 1 on the exam?
7-13%
what kind of plan will help you determine how the design work will be delivered, who will perform the work, and the projected profit of the project?
staffing plan
name the 4 qualities of an ideal staff
- excellent communication skills
- ability to keep on track & stay focused
- talent for overcoming design challenges & obstacles as they arise
- experience in the specific project type
who is responsible for assigning staff & assessing their skills and work that needs to be done on a particular project?
project manager
how many hours are in a full-time year?
40 hours x 52 weeks = 2,080 hours
if a PM is paid $32/hr, what will their yearly salary be, not including bonuses?
$32 x 2080 = $66,650/yr
if a CAD draftsperson is paid $20/hr, what will his/her yearly salary be, not including bonuses?
$20 x 2080 = $41,600/yr
what are 3 typical staff benefits?
- vacation days
- sick days
- health insurance
what are 4 overhead expenses in a typical firm?
- employee compensation
- office rent
- computers & printers
- insurance
each staff member is assigned a _____ to cover slaries, expenses, & create a profit.
billable rate
what is the purpose of a billable rate?
each staff member is assigned a billable rate to cover salaries, expenses, & create a profit
in a small firm, the billable rate might utilize a multiplier of ____ while in a larger firm it could be ____ or higher.
small = 3 larger = 5
what would be the hourly salary for a PM who is billed out at $95/hr and works in a small firm w/ a multiplier of 3?
$95 / 3 = appx. $32
what would be the billable rate of a project architect who earns $25/hr in a large firm w/ a multiplier of 5?
$25 x 5 = $125 per hour billable rate
why would larger firms have a higher billable rate than smaller firms?
larger firms typically incur more overhead (larger offices, more equipment, a larger staff, greater expense)
the ratio of an employee’s billable hours to their total hours worked is called their _____?
utilization rate
what is the utilization rate?
the ratio of employees billable hours to their total hours worked
what is the formula for utilization rate?
billable hours / total hours worked
in a normal 40 hour work week, if a PM is assigned an 80% utilization ratio, how many hours are expected to be billable during the week?
32 hrs
40 x .8 = 32
in a normal 40 hour work week, if a jr. staff is assigned a 100% utilization ratio, how many hours are expected to be billable during the week?
40 hrs
what are some questions to consider to determine project fit?
- what are the skills needed?
- does the firm have enough staff? experienced staff?
- what other experts or consultants are required?
- does the project have special requirements?
- will new software & training be required?
- does the firm have experience in this project type?
- does the location of the project affect ability to perform?
- if project is in another state, is one of the principals licensed in that state?
- does the firm have enough of a portfolio or references to win the project?
what is flexible staffing?
teaming up w/ other architects or professionals on an as-needed basis
typically used by small firms to allow them to submit proposals for larger projects
what are the advantages of flexible staffing?
- extra help w/ no commitment to keep them on after project is complete
- no overhead costs associated w/ employee benefits
- allows firm to gain specialized expertise
- the borrowed or contract employee gets a fairly predictable revenue stream & workload
- a contrat employee has more freedom in setting their own schedule & rate
- ability to pursue larger project types
what are the 3 types of firm business models?
- efficiency-based firms
- experience-based firm
- expertise-based firm
what are the advantages of an efficiency-based firm?
- can do the project better, faster, & cheaper
- projects are not complex and have many repeatable elements
- employ the latest production technology & continually improve the production process
what are the advantages of an experience-based firm?
- they know what they are doing
- can do unique & complex projects by applying their accrued knowledge
- leverage relationships to acquire project & collaborate to deliver them
what are the advantages of an expertise-based firm?
- have special knowledge or talent
- serve as expert consultants or are design stars
- continually work to innovate & to create & acquire knowledge
what are project type examples of efficiency-based firms?
- data centers
- warehouses
- parking garages
- tract (production) housing
- themed retail stores
what are project type examples of experience-based firms?
- schools
- courthouses
- municipal buildings
- boutique hospitality
- museums
what are some characteristics of project types of expertise-based firms?
- distinctive design
- parametric design
- acoustics
- green building/LEED
- high-end kitchen design
which consultant services are part of the architect’s basic scope of services according to AIA B101?
- structural engineer
- mechanical engineer
- electrical engineer
*note: plumbing engineering is not mentioned in the B101 but is generally accepted as an industry standard that the mechanical engineer also provides plumbing engineering design
what are some considerations when choosing consultants?
- complimentary skills
- experience in project type
- prior relationships
- references
- client preference
- ability to meet schedule & deadlines
what are 3 external factors that can affect the fees a firm may set?
- prevailing wages in that city
- typical fee structure based on the type of project
- business model of the firm
what is a design proposal?
an explanation of the process and how the architect provides their services & what they expect to charge for those services
what is the term for services that do not fall under the scope of architect’s basic services?
additional services
what are 4 project team types?
- architect / owner + contractor
- architect / owner / construction manager
- architect / owner / contractor: design-build
- architect / owner / contractor: IPD
according to the architect’s handbook of professional practice, what are 5 common in-house team members in an architect’s office?
- project manager
- job captain
- draftsman
- interior designer
- specification writer
name 4 responsibilities of the project manager?
- coordinating the entire project team, including the in-house team & consultants
- interfacing w/ the principals of the firm & keeping them informed of the progress of the work
- client interaction - keep them informed of the progress of work, review schedule & budget, schedule meetings w/ client
- producing a competent set of instruments
what are 3 responsibilities of the job captain?
- coordinating the working drawing set
- supervising drafters
- reporting to the PM
the draftsman is responsible for what 3 tasks?
- producing drawings from redlines
- interfacing w/ job captain
- specific drawing tasks
name 3 tasks of the interior designer for an in-house project team?
- selecting materials & finishes
- checking on the availability of materials
- providing sketches as required
what are 2 tasks the specification writer will be responsible for?
- compiling the specification manual
2. obtaining specification information from manufacturers
what are 7 key topics for PMs to be familiar with when delegating staff?
- identify team member most capable of doing task
- give team members the responsibility & authority they need
- establish level of performance required
- define the completed activity or results
- define suitable completion date
- agree on the level of effort & time required
- check progress
what is an internal analysis?
a process of identifying & evaluating a firm’s internal capabilities
what 3 items can be found in an internal analysis?
- resources
- capabilities
- core competencies
in terms of an internal analysis, what are resources?
tangible (product or service)
intangible (reputation)
what are 2 capabilities when referring to an internal analysis?
- qualifications of staff
2. ability to meet demands of the project
in terms of an internal analysis, what are core competencies referring to?
major value-creating skills & capabilities of the firm
name 5 resources a firm may utilize when carrying out the delivery of a project as described in an internal analysis.
- human resources
- financial resources
- intangible resources
- organizational resources
- physical assets
what are considered human resources?
- staff
- administrators
- principals
what are considered financial resources?
money to operate the business on a day-to-day basis including payroll
what does tangible mean in terms of resources?
a product or service; something you can put your finger on so to speak
what does intangible mean in terms of resources?
reputation of the firm, talent of the staff (something you can’t put a finger on)
what are physical assets when referring to an internal analysis?
- office space
- equipment
- property
what are 3 general questions to consider when performing an internal analysis for a firm?
- what are the firm’s strengths?
- what are the firm’s weaknesses?
- how do these strengths & weaknesses compare to other similar firms?
name as many as you can of the “how to prepare” items located at the end of module 1 study guide (8)
- set a preliminary staff schedule
- identify consultants needed on the project
- understand how firms make money
- choose an appropriate project
- describe the advantages to the owner of a particular firm business model
- factors on selecting consultants
- things to include in a design proposal
- members of a project team
what is the main topic for module 2, as well as the 3 areas of focus?
project work planning
- develop & maintain project work plan
- determine criteria required to develop & maintain project schedule
- determine appropriate communication to project team - owner, contractor, consultants, & internal staff
what is the target % for module 2 on the exam?
17-23% (13-17 items)
what are the 4 phases of the process that the architect is responsible for setting the schedule?
- schematic design
- design development
- construction documents
- bidding & negotiation
the 5th phase is not listed because the architect does not set the schedule during CA - it is solely the responsibility of the GC
which phase is the most difficult to estimate the time needed for completion?
schematic design phase
what 4 factors can contribute to the length of the schematic design phase?
- size & complexity of the project
- thoroughness of program information provided by the client
- availability & decision-making of the client
- size & experience of the project team
as a general rule of thumb, the DD phase should take ____ to ____ months.
2-4 months
construction documents phase can typically take how long?
3-7 months
bidding or negotiation phase typically takes how long?
3-6 weeks unless a complicated project
what is meant by the term schedule contingencies?
unknown or unexpected issues that arise - schedule can be designed to account for contingencies
e.g., if foundation work is supposed to take 6 weeks - the contractor could add another week to the schedule to account for any delays related to weather or material availability
if a project runs significantly over schedule, increased costs could occur due to ______?
inflation
what are 4 ways to reduce the project schedule?
- working overtime - this will be more expensive for the owner
- hiring more people - this may affect the architect’s profit by increasing overhead
- subcontracting - hiring another firm to help in delivering the project in a timely manner; will also reduce the architect’s profitability
- reducing time spent on the project; may result in lower quality in design documents, will create other concerns during construciton
name 7 ways to manage a project team to aid in agency approvals.
- evaluate project for all codes, laws, & regulations
- prepare written documentation describing code requirements
- attend regulatory meetings as required (design review board)
- oversee project team efforts incl. in-house & consultants
- aid the owner in filing drawings for approval
- receive plan check corrections & distribute to entire project team incl. consultants
- aid the owner in obtaining building permit after all agencies have signed off on the drawings
what does GMP mean?
guaranteed maximum price
what is guaranteed maximum price?
the GC is promising to build the project for a specific amount & signs a contract w/ the owner
should the design or drawings change, would trigger a change order & the construction cost would be adjusted accordingly
what is the critical path method?
typically used as a construction schedule & this method assigns tasks & times to every part of the construction
tasks are shown as arrows, start & finish points marked w/ circles
critical events are tasks that cannot begin until the preceding one ends
important events are called milestones
what is critical path?
the task w/ the longest required time & activities on this path are called critical activities
what is float path?
all paths other than critical path are called float paths
the difference in time btw. a float path and the critical path is called float
what is fast track?
an accelerated or telescoped project
CDs are issued in phases to the contractor - may get an early start on building a portion of the project while the architect continues to work on the remaining drawings
important to note that permits must be pulled for any construction work
what is design-build?
a project delivery method where both the design & construction are provided by a single company or entity
generally speaking, what do PMs do?
they lead the project team, solve problems, interact w/ the owner, & motivate team members to do their best work
what is meant by “project managers lead”?
they have the responsibility & the authority to get the project designed & delivered on time & on schedule
they are the main liaison to the owner to set the program & present the design
they set the staffing & schedules for the team
they facilitate team communications & coordinate w/ the contractor during construction
what is meant by “project managers motivate”?
they are the leader of the team - by organizing a clear task list, schedule, & setting realistic deadlines, the PM becomes a coach for the team
they advocate for the members of the team, incl. standing by the staff & consultants, the owner, & even the contractor
what is produced during the SD phase?
- conceptual site plan
- preliminary building plans, sections, & elevations
- written narrative of the list of major material components, systems, & assemblies
- outline specification
- estimate of the cost of work
what is produced during the DD phase?
- plans, sections, & elevations
- typical construction details
- updated outline specification
- updated estimate of the cost of work
what is produced during the CD phase?
- contract drawings
- project manual
- specifications (part of the project manual)
- general conditions, supplementary conditions (part of the project manual)
- invitations to bidders/instruction to bidders
- updated estimate of the cost of work
what is produced by the architect at the end of the 3 design drawing phases?
updated cost of work
the drawing phase that generally takes about 2-4 months is?
design development
the drawing phase that generally takes 3-7 months is?
construction documents
a project delivery method where both the design & construction are provided by a single company or entity is called what?
design/build
name the 6 “how to prepare” items located at the end of module 2?
- approximate schedule times for each phase of a project
- dealing with schedule changes & contingencies
- benefits of setting a GMP
- knowledge of what project managers do
- typical deliverables during the 3 phases of project delivery
- various methods of construction scheduling
what is the main topic for module 3, as well as the 4 areas of focus?
contracts
- evaluate & verify adherence to owner/architect agreement
- interpret key elements of & to verify adherence to architect/consultant agreement
- interpret key elements of the owner/contractor agreement
- interpret key elements of the owner/consultant agreement to integrate the consultant’s work into the project
what is the target % for module 3 on the ncarb exam?
25-31% w/ 23-29 items
what 3 parties are bound by the AIA A201 - general conditions?
- owner
- architect
- contractor
the AIA B101 is a contract between which two parties?
- architect
- owner
the AIA A101 is a contract between which 2 parties?
- contractor
- owner
which AIA contract is used between the architect & the contractor?
there is no direct contract between architect & contractor
the A201 - general conditions used in conjunction w/ the A101 - lays out the responsibilities of the owner, architect, & contractor during construction
what are 8 questions the architect can ask the owner in establishing the project requirements?
- what is to be designed & built?
- where will this be built?
- what is the level of quality?
- what is the role of the project?
- what is schedule or time constraint?
- what is the target completion date?
- what is the budget or financing source?
- who are the team members?
what are 5 key components of the owner/architect agreement?
- description of services to be performed
- fees for those services
- name, address & license number of the architect
- provision for additional services
- termination clause
what are the groups for the A, B, & C series AIA contracts?
A - owner + general contractor agreements
B - owner + architect agreements
C - architect + consultant agreements
what are the groups for the D, E, & G series AIA contracts?
D - architect industry documents
E - digital file management
F - contract & administration forms (bidding documents, change order forms, construction change directives)
what are considered instruments of service?
- drawings
- specifications
- CDs created by the architect & consultants
the AIA contracts are the most widely used standard contracts in the construction industry. name 3 reasons why.
- they facilitate communication among all parties involved in construction
- they reflect the best contractual advice from practicing professionals, including contractors, consultants, & insurance professionals
- they balance the interests of all parties involved
what does the term fiduciary mean?
the highest legal duty of one party to another - it also involves being bound ethically to act in the other’s best interests
define the term indemnification
also called “hold harmless clause” - a contractual obligation whereby one party agrees not to sue another party against loss or damage
define the term retainage
the process by which the owner withholds a portion of the money due to the contractor in the event the contractor fails to complete the work according to the contract documents
what are liquidated damages?
an amount of money stipulated in the contract to be charged to the contractor as reimbursement for damages suffered by the owner because of the contractor’s failure to fulfill contractual obligations
the B102 is not a standalone agreement as it only contains what elements?
terms & conditions
the B201 is not a standalone agreement as it only contains what elements? and it must be paired with what other AIA document?
scope of services
must be paired w/ B102 (terms & conditions)
name the AIA documents the B102 can be paired with?
B201 - scope of services for design & construction contract administration
B202 - programming
B203 - site evaluation & planning
which AIA document sets forth the rights & responsibilities of the owner, contractor, & architect?
A201 - general conditions
the AIA B101 is essentially a combination of what 2 AIA documents?
B102 - terms & conditions
B201 - scope of services
name 5 architect’s responsibilities according to the B101?
- perform services with professional skill & care
- perform its services expeditiously
- architects shall identify a representative
- architect shall not engage in any activity that would compromise their professional judgment
- architect shall maintain certain insurance
name 5 items under the scope of architect’s basic services according to B101?
- structural, mechanical, & electrical engineering services
- architect may retain outside consultants to provide those services
- architect must manage their work & consult w/ owner
- architect will coordinate their work w/ the work of others
- architect must submit a schedule for their services
what are 4 items the architect is required to provide under SD phase services according to B101?
- prepare a preliminary evaluation of the owner’s program, schedule, budget, & project site
- explore the feasibility of environmentally responsible design
- prepare & present a preliminary design for the owner’s approval
- submit an estimate of the cost of the work
name the 2 items prepared by the architect under the DD phase services according to B101
- prepare DD documents for owner’s approval
2. update the estimate of the cost of work
4 items under the CD phase service according to B101 are…
- prepare construction documents for owner’s approval
- incorporate design requirements to meet code
- assist owner w/ bidding & negotiation
- update the estimate of the cost of work
what 3 items are contained under the bidding & negotiation phase according to B101?
- architect to prepare a list of prospective contractors
- architect to assist the owner in obtaining competitive bids or negotiated proposals
- architect to assist the owner in selecting the winning bid or proposal
the architect has several responsibilities under construction phase services according to B101. list as many as you can (11)
- provide administration of the contract between owner & contractor
- not have control over or responsibility for the construction means & methods
- not be responsible for contractor’s failure to perform
- visit the site at appropriate intervals to observe the work
- have the authority to reject work not conforming to the contract documents
- render initial decisions on claims between owner & contractor (initial decision maker)
- review & certify contractor’s requests for payment
- make timely review of contractor’s submittals
- issue supplemental drawings & specs in response to contractor requests for information
- prepare change orders
- review contractor release of liens
name 8 items the owner shall provide according to the owner’s responsibilities as contained in B101
- information in a timely manner
- written program
- project budget
- designated representative
- surveys & geotechnical reports of the site
- tests, inspections, & reports required
- prompt written notice to the architect if the owner becomes aware of any fault or defect
- access to the site for the architect
what 5 phases are considered an architect’s basic services according to B101?
- schematic design
- design development
- construction documents
- bidding or negotiation
- construction administration
what 4 parts make up the drawings portion of the CDs?
- graphically & verbally describe the physical relationship btw. spaces, areas, materials, products, & equipment
- includes size, extent, dimensions, locations, arrangement
- quantity is also shown, but can also be implied (show size of brick wall instead of exact number of bricks)
- typical drawing sequence
what is the typical drawing sequence for an architect’s services?
- title sheet
- site & landscape plans
- architectural plans
- structural plans
- mechanical plans
- plumbing plans
- fire protection plans
- electrical plans
- other special consultant’s sheets
name 7 items that characterize the specifications
- formatted to CSI standards
- part of the contract documents
- in case of discrepancy, the contractor must notify the architect for clarification
- organized into divisions, sections, & parts
- general: describes related work, definitions, quality control, submittals, & guarantees/warranties
- material: lists & describes the materials, products, & equipment to be used
- execution: details the manner in which products & materials will be installed & work performed
if there is a discrepancy between the drawings & specifications, which takes precedence?
neither - they are complimentary
A201 1.2
in case of discrepancy, the contractor must notify the architect for clarification
AIA C401 is an agreement between which 2 parties?
architect & consultant
one of the most common types of professional relationships is between an architect & what kind of consultant?
professional engineer incl. structural, mechanical, civil, electrical
according to C401, there are 8 responsibilities of the consultant. name as many as you can.
- perform services w/ professional skill & care
- identify a representative
- recommend surveys, test, & reports required
- coordinate its services w/ those of the architect
- provide copies of their drawings & reports as needed
- not be responsible for acts or omissions of architect or other consultants
- submit a schedule for approval
- maintain certain insurance
name the 3 items under scope of consultant’s services as defined in C401
- provide architect w/ same professional services as architect provides owner
- consultant shall be licensed
- assist the architect in determining if architect should reject the work
what are 4 items the architect is responsible for according to the C401?
- provide needed information in a timely manner
- identify a representative
- provide copies of estimates for the work
- provide prompt written notice of any errors or omissions
the C401 refers to the prime agreement. which agreement is it referring to?
B101 owner/architect agreement
the A101 is an agreement between which two parties?
owner & contractor
once the A101 is signed, what 5 items become part of the contract documents?
- contract forms
- conditions of the contract
- architectural & consultant drawings
- project manual incl. specifications
- addenda
what are 3 contract forms that may be used between the owner & contractor?
- owner/contractor agreement (A101)
- performance & payment bond (A312)
- certificate of insurance (G715)
what 4 conditions can be considered conditions of the contract?
- general conditions (A210)
- supplementary conditions (A511)
- special conditions (when needed)
- other conditions
name 3 ways the contract between owner & contractor can be modified
- architect’s supplemental instructions
- change orders
- construction change directive
according to A101, the architect shall act as _____ if a dispute arises between owner & contractor
initial decision maker
don’t confuse this with mediation - at no time is the architect acting as a mediator
mediation will occur after the architect renders an initial decision and the owner or contractor do not agree with the decision
which 3 parties have the right to stop work?
- owner
- building official
- contractor, only if not paid or discovers hazardous materials
the architect does not have authority to stop work
which 3 parties have the right to stop work?
- owner
- building official
- contractor, only if not paid or discovers hazardous materials
the architect does not have the authority to stop work
what is the contractor’s primary responsibility during construction?
build per the contract documents
the contractor is responsible for many things during construction, but at the core is the responsibility to simply build per the contract documents
according to the A201, the contractor is responsible for what?
- report errors & omissions to the architect
- supervising & direction the work
- site safety
- provide construction schedule to architect & owner
- provide a schedule of submittals
- mark all field changes
- provide & pay for all services in the contract to execute the work
- notify owner & architect of any substitutions
- secure & pay for permits & inspections
- not responsible to ensure contract documents meet the code requirements (that is the responsibility of the architect)
- review submittals & shop drawings
according to the A201, the architect is responsible for what?
- owner/contractor communication goes through the architect
- review & approve payments to the contractor
- review contractor’s submittals
- prepare change orders & construction change directives
- perform inspection at substantial completion & final completion
- render decisions of performance of either contractor or owner
- reject work not in compliance w/ contract documents & notify owner
what is the architect’s primary responsibility during construction?
visit the job site at appropriate intervals & determine whether the work being done by the contractor conforms to the contract documents & notify the owner
the architect has a lot of responsibilities during construction but this is the main one, and notifying the owner whether work of the contractor meets the requirements is extremely important
according to A201, the owner is responsible for what 5 items?
- show evidence they are able to finance the project
- pay for & secure all documentation necessary for access, use, & occupancy
- furnish survey & all data pertaining to the existing condition
- be prompt & cooperate w/ all parties
- provide copies of the drawings as required
what is the form called the contractor uses to show the portions of the work & costs allocated to each cost. it is also sent to the architect with the application & certificate of payment form.
schedule of values
there is no AIA form for schedule of values, contractors simply use their own
who completes the punch list?
contractor
yes, it is true according to the A201. the contractor is responsible for completing the punch list - however, in the real world, the architect provides the punch list
when are the architect’s scope of basic services considered complete?
when the architect issues the final certificate of payment
safety on the job site is the responsibility of which party?
contractor
what should the contractor do if they discover hazardous material on the job site?
stop work & report to the owner & architect
if the architect requests the contractor to open a portion of work already completed and it is determined upon inspection by the architect that the work complies with contract documents, who pays to cover the work back up?
owner
what is the warranty period the contractor provides to the owner according to the A201?
1 year from date of substantial completion
what is the main topic for module 4 as well as the 4 areas of focus?
project execution
- staying on budget
- changes in scope
- project documentation
- project approvals
what is the target % for module 4 on the ncarb exam?
17-23% (16-22 items)
when the architect provides an estimate of the cost of the work as specified in the B201, what 4 conditions is the architect unable to account for?
- market conditions
- inflation & the cost of goods & services
- contractor means & methods of construction
- unknown site conditions
the architect’s design decisions are affected by several factors. name 5.
- cost
- function
- form/aesthetics/quality
- time/constructability
- sustainability
what are 5 factors the architect can use to control project costs?
- project size
- finish quality
- detail complexity
- program requirements
- number of trades used
what are accommodation units?
cost estimating method
units of accommodation assist designs where there are multiple iterations of the same function/space such as apartments, hospital beds, parking spaces, dormitories, & movie theaters
what are area & volume methods?
cost estimating method used for preliminary estimates which utilize the floor area or volume of an initial design to allow for a better understanding of the cost & scale of a project
what is historical price data?
cost estimating method utilizing costs from previous projects of similar size & scope
what is the square footage method?
cost estimating method that uses square footages of floor area that is multiplied by an average cost per square foot for a specific project type
what is the assemblies/subsystems method?
cost estimating method that utilizes assembly components that are added together. as the design is refined, an assembly can be broken down into components such as door, frame, & finish.
what is the quantity survey method?
cost estimating method that takes elements of fixtures separately - measuring lengths of pieces, even trims & fittings
this detailed method of measuring is usually used by the contractor and not by architects
which cost estimating methods would be most appropriate during the pre-planning phase of a hospital if historical data is not available?
cost per square foot
cost per hospital bed
2 methods of cost estimating during programming would be…?
- cost per square foot
2. historical data
if the bids come back from contractors over budget, what shall the architect do?
modify the contract documents to meet the budget requirements of the owner (unless the owner approves an increase in cost) without additional compensation to the architect
what are 6 location factors that can affect the design of a project?
- geographical
- geological
- guidelines & regulations
- contextual & environmental influences
- climate
- solar orientation
name 5 design factors that can influence the cost of a project
- location factors
- construction factors
- time factors
- client factors
- quality factors
what are 3 time factors that can affect the cost of the project?
- accelerated schedule
- weather - winter or rainy season
- rush to finish
what are 5 client factors?
- long term
- short term value
- profit
- zero-based design
- cost & benefit
what are 2 quality factors?
- quality vs. cost - proportionally related
2. priorities - pay for quality over time vs. savings now
there are 8 factors that can affect the architect’s scope of basic services. name as many as you can.
- programmatic requirements
- project budget or schedule
- special engineers or consultants not included in basic services
- services to be provided by others
- firm’s own internal capabilities
- regulatory requirements & public review process
- owner requests architect to observe the existing facility at set times throughout the year & incorporate observations into the design
name 5 ways changes can affect the design production schedule
- owner requests additional layout options beyond what was originally agreed
- owner requests each unit/office/suite to be unique
- owner requests a level of detail in the millwork beyond what is considered an industry standard
- owner requests sourcing & specification of rare type of material to match the existing building
- owner requests architect to observe the existing facility at set times throughout the year and incorporate observations into the design
name 3 ways the owner can affect the permitting schedule
- owner requests the design exceed the maximum height limitation allowed by zoning code (would require a variance)
- owner intends a non-conforming use for the site (also would require variance)
- owner selects site in a sensitive area (such as coastal zones) or historical neighborhood which may require additional design review board & public review meetings
what is the definition of standard of care according to the handbook of professional practice?
the architect is required to do what a reasonably prudent architect would do in the same community and in the same time frame, given the same or similar facts or circumstances
when discussing standard of care, what does the term negligence mean?
failure to exercise due care under the circumstances
legal liability is imposed on a person or entity that is negligent when such negligence causes damage to some other person to whom the negligent actor owes a duty recognized by law
when discussing standard of care, what does the term negligence per se mean?
an act or omission regarded as negligence without the need for argument or proof because it violates a standard of care as defined by statute or is beyond reasonable behavior that is negligence on its face
when discussing standard of care, what does the term negligent act or omission mean?
in law, an act or omission involving failure to exercise due care
name as many document checking procedures as you can (10)
- in-house team meetings
- review meetings between principal & project managers
- meetings w/ entire project team including consultants & owner
- use checklists
- obtain written sign-off/approvals by the owner at the end of each phase
- documentation & approvals of key decisions
- develop library of details
- 3rd party peer review (senior staff not involved in the project may review)
- procedures in place for coordinating w/ consultants
- development of procedures & checklists as the drawings are in the construction documents phase
what is the difference between project delivery & project management?
project delivery refers to the method of assigning responsibility to an organization or an individual for providing design & construction services
project management refers to the means for coordinating the process of design & construction
what is the traditional project delivery method and how does it work?
design-bid-build
the architect prepares the contract documents and puts the project out to bid to several contractors
contractors submit bids & the winning bidder is chosen. contractor builds project per the contract documents.
what is the main advantage of design-build from the owner’s perspective?
owner only contracts w/ one firm/entity resulting in a single point of contact for the design & construction
what is the main advantage to the owner of a construction manager @ risk project delivery method?
the owner can set the final costs before the completion of the construction documents and is not responsible for cost overruns that occurred during construction that are not the fault of the owner
what is a request for qualifications?
a document used by the owner when seeking professionals to provide services
an RFQ asks firms to submit their relevant experience
what is a request for proposals?
a document used by the owner when seeking professionals to provide services
an RFP is similar to an RFQ, but an RFP also includes a request to include fees & costs
what are the 3 steps the owner can use in selecting a contractor?
- issue request for qualifications (RFQ)
- issue request for proposals (RFP)
- interview contractors to discuss qualifications
who issues the certificate of occupancy (CO)?
building official, typically after final inspection
in the simplest form, what is the purpose of building codes?
protect the health, safety, & welfare of the public
what are covenants?
written agreements or a promise under seal between 2 or more parties for the performance of some specific action or restriction
covenants came into use in large-scale residential land developments prior to the advent of zoning. shopping centers & malls also use them to control what their tenants can do to their storefronts.
the purpose of a covenant was to protect the aesthetics or amenities of the property for the life of the deed
what is the main purpose of a design review board?
maintain an aesthetic quality and character in a neighborhood or city
what is the purpose of the certificate of occupancy?
it allows the owner to legally occupy a building
before beginning a project, one of the first visits should be to which local agency?
planning department
in-house team meetings, review meetings, & procedures in place for coordinating with consultants would be considered what?
document checking procedures
name as many as you can of the “how to prepare” items located at the end of module 4 study guide (10)
- knowledge of external factors that can affect the cost of a project
- examples of contingencies on a project
- how a contractor determines cost of the work estimates
- things not included in cost estimates
- agencies involved in the approval process
- ideas for reducing cost of a project that is over budget
- factors tht could affect the cost of a project
- how changes can affect fee or project schedule
- knowledge of standard of care
- knowledge of project delivery methods
what is the main topic for module 5 as well as the 4 areas of focus?
quality control
- compliance with regulations
- quality control in risk management
- quality control in documentation
- project design process
what is the target % for module 5 on the ncarb exam?
19-25% (18-23 items)
the architect is required to do what a reasonably prudent architect would do in the same community and in the same time frame, given the same or similar factors or circumstances is considered what?
practicing within the standard of care
each state is responsible for licensing architects. if an architect is not licensed by their respective state or the state they are seeking work in, they cannot use what terms in advertising services?
not use the term Architect, architecture, or architectural in advertising any services
an unlicensed individual cannot mislead the public into thinking they are an architect or providing architectural services
name 2 concepts important under competence when discussing professional conduct.
- architect shall perform professional services only when qualified by education, training, & experience
- architect shall perform with reasonable care & competence, and shall apply their technical knowledge & skill
name one concept important under willful misconduct when discussing professional conduct.
in designing a project, an architect has knowledge of all applicable building laws, codes, & regulations
name one concept important under conflict of interest when discussing professional conduct
if an architect has any business association or financial interest which could influence their judgement in performing their professional duties, the architect must disclose in writing to the client
name one concept important under full disclosure when discussing professional conduct
an architect shall accurately represent their qualifications & the scope of their projects and services to a prospective or existing client
name one concept under copyright infringement when discussing professional conduct
an architect shall not infringe upon the copyrighted works of other architects or design professionals
name one concept important under informed consent when discussing professional conduct
an architect shall not materially alter the scope or objective of a project without first fully informing the client & obtaining the consent of the client in writing
is membership in the AIA a requirement for licensure?
no, it is voluntary (and expensive once you become licensed as you join at 3 levels - local, state, & national)
the AIA requires its members to adhere to a _____.
code of ethics & professional conduct
what are the 4 obligations under the AIA code of ethics?
obligation to the:
- public
- client
- profession
- colleagues
according to the AIA code of ethics, name 7 concepts to be familiar with under obligations to the public.
- members shall not knowingly violate the law
- members shall not make payment or gift to a public official with the intent of influencing the official’s judgment
- members serving in public capacity shall not accept payments or gifts which are intended to influence the project
- members shall not engage in fraud or wanton disregard of others
- members shall not council or assist a client in conduct of illegal activity
- members making public statements on architectural issues shall disclose when they are being compensated
- if members become aware of a decision taken by their employer or client which violates the law, they must advise the employer or client against the decision, refuse to consent to the decision, and report the decision to a local public official
according to the AIA code of ethics, name 7 concepts to be familiar with under obligations to the client.
members shall:
- take into account applicable laws & regulations
- be qualified by education, training, & experience
- not alter the scope of work without client’s consent
- not render professional services if judgment could be affected by responsibilities to another project or person
- when acting as an interpreter of contract documents & judge of contract performance, members shall render decisions impartially
- not mislead prospective clients of results that can be achieved
- not disclose information that would adversely affect their client
according to the AIA code of ethics, name 5 concepts to be familiar with under obligations to the profession.
members shall:
- file a complaint with the national ethics council if they become aware of a violation of another member
- not stamp drawings or specs that were not produced under their responsible control
- not make false statements when speaking in a professional capacity
- not make false statements or claims about qualifications, experience, or performance
- ensure those they have supervision over conform their conduct to the AIA code of ethics
according to the AIA code of ethics, name 4 concepts to be familiar with under obligations to the colleagues.
- members who agree shall assist those in architectural internship & provide proper documentation
- members shall recognize & respect the professional contributions of their employees, employers, colleagues, & business associates
- members leaving a firm shall not take designs & drawings without permission of the employer or partner
- a member shall not unreasonably withhold permission from a departing employee or partner to take copies of drawings or other related material that is not confidential
if a project is located in an unincorporated area, the plan check would be handled by the _____ agencies?
county
who is responsible for making sure the project complies with local laws, codes, & regulations?
architect
what are the 6 local agencies typically involved in a project?
- planning department
- building & safety department
- transportation department
- department of public works
- fire department
- police department
when determining the building footprint, what 4 considerations have to be considered?
- setbacks
- floor area ratio
- lot coverage
- open space requirements
name 8 items the planning department will review a project for
- use
- setbacks
- floor area ratio
- lot coverage
- open space requirements
- building height
- parking requirements
- compliance w/ local ordinances
name 7 typical plan checks within the building & safety department
- building plan check
- electrical plan check
- elevator plan check
- fire sprinkler plan check
- grading plan check
- mechanical/HVAC plan check
- plumbing plan check
what are the 3 types of plan checks?
- counter plan check
- appointment plan check
- regular plan check
name 8 items the building & safety department will review a project for
- design & construction requirements based on occupancy
- building height & floor area
- fire resistance of structural elements
- fire protection systems
- egress requirements
- light & ventilation requirements
- structural requirements for building components
- materials performance & specifications
name 3 items the transportation department will review on a project
- traffic flow, increase in intensity
- location of curb cuts
- types of traffic signals & directional signage
name 6 items the department of public works will review a project for
- water supply to the site
- wastewater from the site
- stormwater runoff
- electrical service to & from the site
- street lighting
- improvements in the right-of-way
name 5 items the fire department will review a project for
- fire suppression systems
- egress requirements
- fire lanes & emergency access
- location of fire hydrants & standpipe
- fire truck turnarounds
name 4 items the police department may review on a project
- communication system
- site lighting for safety at night
- security of entrances & exits
- emergency response plan/system in place
what does the term quality control refer to?
a set of best practices for managing the drawing production to ensure the drawings leave the architect’s office with as few mistakes as possible
what does total quality management refer to?
TQM incorporates quality control & quality assurance, but also includes a bit of long-range thinking to consider how the end-user will utilize the final project
name 5 ways the architect can limit exposure to liability
- utilize well-written contracts
- develop a series of quality control measures
- document major decisions as well as observations, meetings, & changes
- be careful of rushed decisions, be sure to have time to research & consider
- carry sufficient insurance
what is professional liability insurance?
insurance coverage that provides protection against damages brought by claims caused by the architect’s negligent acts, including errors or omissions in the drawings, that may cause damage to the owner, contractor, or another party
what is general liability insurance?
insurance coverage that provides protection against damage from an architect’s office operations & non-professional activities at the job site
what is workers compensation insurance?
employment insurance for employees in case of illness, injury, or disability stemming from their employment
only required when architect has employees
a requirement of the state the architect is practicing in
what is a waiver of subrogation?
it is a clause put into the general conditions to minimize lawsuits & claims among parties
the result is the risk of loss is placed on the insurance companies
what are the 4 types of insurance required by the B101 - standard form of agreement between owner & architect?
- professional liability
- general liability
- automobile insurance
- workers compensation
who has the responsibility over the construction means & methods?
the contractor
what are 3 benefits of a constructability review?
- reduced construction costs
- identify areas of potential risk
- contractor can provide valuable input into the construction schedule & cost
what are the 2 broad categories of specifications?
- prescriptive
2. performance
what is a proprietary specification?
defines the use of desired materials, products, systems, & equipment by their exact manufacturer trade names, product codes, & model numbers
what is an open specification?
names several types of acceptable materials, products, or systems (usually 3)
oftentimes integrates the term “or approved equal”
type of proprietary specification
what is a closed specification?
a specific manufacturer is listed for a product & substitutions are not typically allowed
type of proprietary specification
what is a reference specification?
requires that a product, material, or system meet an established and recognized standard, such as UL, ASTM, or ANSI
what is a performance specification?
requires products, materials, or systems that must meet certain requirements
similar to a reference specification, but instead of naming a testing standard it requires a desired result
what is a cash allowance specification?
used when final selections or design decisions have not yet been determined or are not available
helpful in obtaining preliminary bids, but eventually need to be submitted with more specific spec
what does CSI stand for?
construction specification institute
