category III

Question 0

You are designing a performing arts center on a sloping site. What four consultants should be brought on board for this project type?

Answer 0

// acoustical engineer: to evaluate specific acoustical needs of the auditorium

// structural engineer: to determine what structure best suits the sloped site

// geotechnical engineer: to determine what soils are present for foundation design

// site surveyor: to determine exact topography dimensions

Question 1

An owner has a site with a historical building and gardens located adjacent to the property. Name three consultants who may be needed to evaluate this project.

Answer 1

// historical preservation consultant: to evaluate any requirements of the california historic building code

// landscape designer: to determine what landscape would best complement the existing historical garden

// biologist: to determine if the proposed project would adversely affect the existing gardens and wildlife on site

Question 2

What factors should be considered when selecting consultants?

Answer 2

// complimentary skills
// experience in project type
// prior relationships
// references
// client preference
// ability to meet schedule/deadline

Question 3

According to AIA 201, name three services, other than architectural services, that are part of the scope of architect’s basic services.

Answer 3

// structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering services are part of the scope of architect’s basic services

Question 4

What responsibilities does a consultant have in relationship with the architect? How is their relationship defined?

Answer 4

// according to AIA C401: standard form of agreement between architect and consultant, the consultant shall assume toward the architect all obligations and responsibilities that the architect assumes toward the owner

// the consultant is defined as an independent contractor to the architect

Question 5

If an architect hires a team of consultants, does the architect maintain sole professional credit for the project? How are marketing and promotional expenses paid for?

Answer 5

// no, the architect and consultant agree to share professional credit for the project as well as share costs and expenses incurred in marketing, promotion, and display of the project, if applicable

Question 6

What are typical responsibilities assumed by the consultant on a project?

Answer 6

// consultant to uphold standard of care, similar to what is required of architect

// recommend to the architect investigations, surveys, tests, reports, etc required for the project

// coordinate services with architect

// provide copies of drawings, reports, specs, etc to the architect and other consultants

// submit a schedule for performance of services for architect’s approval

Question 7

What is a consultant not responsible for?

Answer 7

// the consultant shall not be responsible for acts or omissions of the architect or others

// the consultant shall provide prompt written notice to the architect if the consultant becomes aware of any errors, omissions or inconsistencies in the services or information provided to the architect or other consultants

Question 8

Name four types of insurance required for the consultant to maintain.

Answer 8

// general liability

// automobile liability

// workers compensation

// professional liability

Question 9

Describe the scope of the consultant’s services

Answer 9

// provide the architect with same professional services as the architect provides to owner

// license required in the jurisdiction where the project is located

// upon request, furnish interpretations of contract documents prepared by the consultant

// render written recommendations on claims, disputes, etc, between owner and contractor

// assist architect in rejecting non-conforming work

Question 10

Name four responsibilities of the architect in regards to consultants.

Answer 10

// provide information in a timely manner, including owner’s programs

// designate an authorized respresentative to act on the architect’s behalf

// confer with consultant before issuing interpretations or clarifications of documents prepared by consultant

// advise consultant of the identity of other consulting participants

Question 11

What documents must the architect provide to the consultant?

Answer 11

// detailed layouts showing location of connections

// tabulation of sizes, loads, etc. on equipment designed or furnished by others

// estimates of cost of work submitted to the owner

// contract documents, change orders, bidding documents, negotiated proposals, etc

// information from surveys, tests, reports, etc. of other consultants if requested by consultant, architect shall request owner to provide

Question 12

What does AIA C401 require regarding accuracy of services performed by the consultant?

Answer 12

// the architect shall be entitled to rely on the accuracy and completeness of services and information furnished by the consultant

// the architect shall provide written notice to the consultant if the architect becomes aware of any errors, omissions, or inconsistencies in such services or information

Question 13

What is the consultant’s responsbility towards cost of work estimations?

Answer 13

// after all project requirements have been identified, the consultant shall prepare and submit to the architect an estimate of the cost of the work for the portion of the project the consultant has reponsibility for

// the consultant shall update their estimate as required by the prime agreement between architect and owner

Question 14

According to AIA 201, name three services, other than architectural services, that are part of the scope of architect’s basic services.

Answer 14

// structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering services are part of the scope of architect’s basic services

Question 15

What responsibilities does a consultant have in relationship with the architect? How is their relationship defined?

Answer 15

// according to AIA C401: standard form of agreement between architect and consultant, the consultant shall assume toward the architect all obligations and responsibilities that the architect assumes toward the owner

// the consultant is defined as an independent contractor to the architect

Question 16

If an architect hires a team of consultants, does the architect maintain sole professional credit for the project? How are marketing and promotional expenses paid for?

Answer 16

// no, the architect and consultant agree to share professional credit for the project as well as share costs and expenses incurred in marketing, promotion, and display of the project, if applicable

Question 17

What are typical responsibilities assumed by the consultant on a project?

Answer 17

// consultant to uphold standard of care, similar to what is required of architect

// recommend to the architect investigations, surveys, tests, reports, etc required for the project

// coordinate services with architect

// provide copies of drawings, reports, specs, etc to the architect and other consultants

// submit a schedule for performance of services for architect’s approval

Question 18

What is a consultant not responsible for?

Answer 18

// the consultant shall not be responsible for acts or omissions of the architect or others

// the consultant shall provide prompt written notice to the architect if the consultant becomes aware of any errors, omissions or inconsistencies in the services or information provided to the architect or other consultants

Question 19

Name four types of insurance required for the consultant to maintain.

Answer 19

// general liability

// automobile liability

// workers compensation

// professional liability

Question 20

Describe the scope of the consultant’s services.

Answer 20

// provide the architect with same professional services as the architect provides to owner

// license required in the jurisdiction where the project is located

// upon request, furnish interpretations of contract documents prepared by the consultant

// render written recommendations on claims, disputes, etc, between owner and contractor

// assist architect in rejecting non-conforming work

Question 21

Name four responsibilities of the architect in regards to consultants.

Answer 21

// provide information in a timely manner, including owner’s programs

// designate an authorized respresentative to act on the architect’s behalf

// confer with consultant before issuing interpretations or clarifications of documents prepared by consultant

// advise consultant of the identity of other consulting participants

Question 22

What documents must the architect provide to the consultant?

Answer 22

// detailed layouts showing location of connections

// tabulation of sizes, loads, etc. on equipment designed or furnished by others

// estimates of cost of work submitted to the owner

// contract documents, change orders, bidding documents, negotiated proposals, etc

// information from surveys, tests, reports, etc. of other consultants if requested by consultant, architect shall request owner to provide

Question 23

What does AIA C401 require regarding accuracy of services performed by the consultant?

Answer 23

// the architect shall be entitled to rely on the accuracy and completeness of services and information furnished by the consultant

// the architect shall provide written notice to the consultant if the architect becomes aware of any errors, omissions, or inconsistencies in such services or information

Question 24

What is the consultant’s responsbility towards cost of work estimations?

Answer 24

// after all project requirements have been identified, the consultant shall prepare and submit to the architect an estimate of the cost of the work for the portion of the project the consultant has reponsibility for

// the consultant shall update their estimate as required by the prime agreement between architect and owner

Question 25

What must a consultant do if the estimate for the cost of work exceeds the owner’s budget?

Answer 25

// if at any time the estimate for the cost of the work exceeds the owner’s budget, the consultant shall make appropriate recommendations to the architect to adjust the project’s size, quality or budget related to the consultant’s portion

// additional, the consultant shall cooperate with the architect and the architect’s other consultants in redesigning their portion to comply with the budget for the cost of the work

Question 26

Does a consultant maintain copyrights and licenses over their portion of the work?

Answer 26

// yes. the consultant grants the architect a license to use the consultant’s instructments of service in the same manner the architect has granted a license to the owner in the prime agreement

// the architect and consultant shall not make changes in each other’s instruments of service without written permission of the other party

Question 27

Name five different types of firm structures.

Answer 27

// sole proprietor: ownered and run by one individual, no legal distinction between owner and business

// partnership: partners agree to share in job duties as well as profits and losses of a business

// S corporation: allows income and expenses to flow through individual business owner

// C corporation: separation of business and owner

// joint venture: business agreement in which parties agree to work together for a finite time

Question 28

Which firm structure is the most expensive? Which is the least?

Answer 28

// generally speaking, corporations, both S and C type, are the most expensive firm structures to create and maintain

// state of california franchise tax board requires minimum $800 annually for being a corporation, plus accountant fees are higher due to filing corporate tax returns being more labor intensive

// least expensive: sole proprietor. most common for solo practitioners

Question 29

Who are the five primary members of a typical project team?

Answer 29

// project manager: coordinates entire team, keeps client informed of progress, produces competent set of instruments

// job captain: coordinates working drawing set, supervises drafters, reports to project manager

// draftsman: produces drawings, responsible for specific drawing task, interfaces with job captain

// interior designer: selects materials and finishes

// specification writer: compiles specs book

Question 30

What is the primary role of the project manager?

Answer 30

// the project manager serves as the central figure and person in the architecture firm who is responsible for the project

// their primary role is to communicate both with the project team (including in-house and consultants) as well as the client regarding information on progress of the work, schedule, design, and budget issues

Question 31

Name five areas of knowledge essential for a project manager.

Answer 31

// ability to identify client expectations and preferred method of communication

// ability to get things done, take on challenges and accomplish objectives

// ability to take charge and provide guidance and direction for project team

// ability to manage client relationships

// ability to carry out the project within the scope of services, schedule & budget

Question 32

What process should be followed regarding allocation of personnel to project tasks?

Answer 32

// establish the specific skills and level of effort needed for the project

// identify people to work on the project

// balance the needs of the project with those of the firm and its other projects

Question 33

Delegating tasks is an important function of a project manager. How can this be accomplished?

Answer 33

// identify team member most capable of doing task

// give that person the responsibility and authority he/she needs

// establish the level of performance required

// define the completed activity or results

// define the suitable completion date

// agree on the level of effort and time required

// check progress

Question 34

Describe the three stages of project operations in relation to coordinating staff, tasks, communications and schedules.

Answer 34

// startup: team briefing, project authorization, establish project files, identify key project information (program, site codes, schedule, etc)

// communications: meetings, contact info and date on all correspondence, take notes, use transmittals and fax cover letters, document key decisions

// closeout: collect project info, finalize billing, archive project files

Question 35

What are six characteristics of effective team building?

Answer 35

// small enough to convene and communicate easily and frequently

// foster discussions that are interactive and open to all members

// mutual understanding of members’ roles and skills

// specific set of team goals are in place

// members have a sense of mutual accountability

// ability to measure progress against specific goals

Question 36

What documents are contained within a business plan?

Answer 36

// mission statement: purpose of the company

// strategic plan: acheive goals of the company

// marketing strategy: how to communicate plans & strategies

// cash flow projections: monthly, annually, 5 year

// overhead expenses: fixed, office rent, salaries

// profit plan: monthly, annually, 5 year

Question 37

What programs do some firms offer regarding employee training and professional development?

Answer 37

// IDP: intern development program

// AIA continuing education program

// mentoring within the firm

// in house programs

// outside seminars

// lunch & learn

// office site visits

Question 38

What financial management principals are important to project management?

Answer 38

// utilize computer software: quickbooks

// accounts payable and receivable

// monthly financial statements

// profit and loss: monthly, annually

// payroll information by employee

// reimbursable expenses tracking

// architectural services tracking

// complete data from past projects to use for future projects

Question 39

Describe the steps necessary before a project team can obtain necessary agency approvals.

Answer 39

// evaluate project for all applicable codes, laws & regulations and meet with government officials

// prepare written documentation describing code compliance & agency approval, distribute to project team and owner

// attend meetings as required by design review board, architectural review board, etc

// prepare drawings for approval by various agencies

Question 40

How does the architect contribute to the project team during the agency approval process?

Answer 40

// architect shall aid the owner in filing drawings for approval by the various agencies

// architect shall receive plan check corrections, distributes to entire project team including consultants, make revisions to the drawings, and resubmit for final approval fro the various agencies

Question 41

What measures can be taken to cross check documents for quality assurance?

Answer 41

// in-house team meetings with entire project team including consultants and owners

// use of checklists

// obtain written sign off/approvals by the owner at the end of each phase

// develop library of details

// third party peer review (senior staff not involved in the project may review)

// procedures for coordinating with consultants

Question 42

What methods are available for architects to limit their exposure to professional liability?

Answer 42

// efficient in-house organization & communication

// select projects carefully and work within the firm’s capacity

// carry the necessary types and amounts of insurance

// utilize a written contract

// documentation and approvals of key decisions

// provide contration administration services

Question 43

Why is it important for the members of the design team to review documents after a third party peer review?

Answer 43

// third party peer review (senior staff not involved in the project) is a valuable method for quality assurance because others may be able to identify technical issues that may have been missed during document development

// however, these third party individuals may not pick up program errors so it is important that the project team also cross checks the documents as well as have the owner review for accuracy

Question 44

According to the Architects Practice Act, how are architects who perform voluntary building inspection at the site of an emergency protected from liability exposure?

Answer 44

// architects who perform voluntary building inspection at the site of an emergency at the request of a local official shall not be liable in negligence for any damage caused by good faith but negligent inspection (only within 30 days of emergency)

Question 45

Describe the five types of insurance coverage a firm owner should carry.

Answer 45

// professional liability (errors & omissions): protects against damages from claims against an architect by the owner, contractor, etc

// general liability: protects against damages from an architect’s office operations on job site

// workers compensation: protection for work related injuries

// automobile: comprehensive liability policy

// property: protection from fire, theft, loss, etc

Question 46

What types of liability insurance are required by the State of California?

Answer 46

// in the state of california, it is required for individuals to carry automobile libaility insurance and for businesses to carry workers compensation if you have employees

// the other liability insurances are recommended as far as good business practices are concerns, but are not required by law

Question 47

What are five ways in which an architect can involve the client, users, consultants and stakeholders in developing the project design?

Answer 47

// attend community meetings

// hold private meetings with clients and end users

// hold public meetings with stakeholders and clients

// hold town hall type meetings for the community

// hold a charette to encourage input on design

Question 48

Name four ways an architect can communicate design ideas and collect feedback from users and stakeholders.

Answer 48

// present plans, elevations, models, and 3d sketches

// show a power point presentation

// conduct interviews with stakeholders and end users

// distribute questionnaires to clients, end users, and stakeholders

Question 49

What does AIA B102 define?

Answer 49

// AIA B102 is the standard form of agreement between owner and architect without a predefined scope of architect’s services

// this document provides agreement terms only and does not include a scope of the architect’s services

// this must be inserted into article 1 or attached as an exhibit

// B102 contains provisions for mediation and arbitration of claims and disputes

Question 50

Which document provides the architect’s scope of services?

Answer 50

// AIA B201 - standard form of architect’s services: design and construction contract

// this is based on the five traditional phases: schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding or negotiation, and construction administration

Question 51

Is AIA B201 a standalone document?

Answer 51

// no, it must be incorporated into an owner-architect agreement, such as AIA B102

Question 52

What are the architect’s responsibilities during schematic design?

Answer 52

// prepare preliminary evaluation of owner’s program

// exploration of different design alternatives

// meeting with local officials

// meeting and preliminary coordination consultants

// submit to the owner an estimate of the cost of work

Question 53

Describe the architect’s role during design development.

Answer 53

// focus on a single design strategy

// consideration of materials and finishes

// selection of structural system

// meeting with local officials

// meeting and coordination with consultants

// update the estimate of the cost of work

Question 54

What basic responsibilities does the architect have during the construction documents phase?

Answer 54

// prepare construction documents

// prepare written specifications

// prepare the project manual

// prepare drawings for submittal to local agencies

// coordination of consultant’s drawings

// update the estimate of the cost of work

Question 55

Excluding the drawings, what two documents are part of the bid documents but not part of the project manual?

Answer 55

// invitation to bidders/instructions to bidders

// form of agreement between owner and contractor

Question 56

What information is contained within the Project Manual?

Answer 56

// specification

// conditions of the contract for construction: general conditions, supplmentary conditions, other conditions

Question 57

Describe the two different types of Proprietary Specification that can be allocated to a project

Answer 57

// open (equal) specifications: typically includes three or more trade names with provision “or approved equal”

// closed specification: single trade name, doesn’t allow substitutions (generally not allowed on public projects)

Question 58

What is a Performance Specification?

Answer 58

// a performance specification describes the performance criteria required for a particular product or system

// a contractor can then specify any material/product assembly he/she would like so long as it meets the performance requirements

Question 59

Describe an allowance and how it is beneficial to the bidding documents.

Answer 59

// an allowance is used in lieu of specifying a product or particular portion of the work when that product or scope of work is not specified, such as door hardware

// this allows the contractor to include the allowance in his/her bid knowing that the item will be selected at a later date

// once the item is select, the contract price will be adjusted utilizing a change order

Question 60

What is the difference between an alternate and a substitution?

Answer 60

// an alternate is an amount added or deducted to the base bid for a specific product, i.e. hardwood floor is specified in the base bid, but alternate #1 is carpet. only used in the bidding phase

// a substitution typically occurs during construction when a product is substituted for the one specified in the construction documents, i.e. no longer available, long lead time. must be approved in writing by architect or owner

Question 61

What are the architect’s responsibilities during bidding & negotiation?

Answer 61

// send out contractors’ qualification statements

// send out invitation/instructions to bidders

// send out bid documents

// respond to RFIs

// issue addenda

// attend pre-bid conference

// assist owner in reviewing bids

// documentation and distribution of bidding results

Question 62

Describe the architect’s role during contract administration.

Answer 62

// review shop drawings

// process change orders

// issue revisions

// interpret drawings & specs, revise if necessary

// visit job site at appropriate intervals

// process applications for payment to contractor

// process certificate of substantial completion

// schedule weekly/bi-weekly job meetings with owner, contractor and architect

Question 63

Which three optional design phases are the main options typically offered to an owner?

Answer 63

// pre-design: programming, flow diagrams, existing facilities survey, development of preliminary budget

// site evaluation & planning: site analysis & selection, utility studies, surveys, soils reports

// post contract services: maintenance & operational programming, start-up assistance, record drawings, warranty review, post contract evaluation

Question 64

Name some common types of additional services not covered in the scope of architect’s basic services.

Answer 64

// programming

// multiple preliminary designs

// existing facilities survey

// site evaluation & planning

// detailed cost estimating

// as-designed/as-constructed record drawings

// post occupancy evaluation

// coordination of owner’s consultants

// building commissioning and LEED certification

Question 65

What are some common reimbursable expenses according to AIA B102?

Answer 65

// transportation and out of town travel

// data & communication services, website

// fees paid for securing jurisdictional approvals

// printing, reproductions, & plots

// overtime work if authorized in advance by owner

// renderings, models, mock-ups, professional photos

// consultant’s professional liability insurance

// taxes on professional services & reimbursables

// site office expenses

Question 66

For planning/environmental review, what documents are typically required to gain approvals?

Answer 66

// for planning and environmental review, there is no set requirement for documentation as it depends mostly on the scope of the project and issues relevant at the project site. basic requirements include:

// site plan, floor plans, elevations

// exterior finish material samples

// renderings showing building and site in context

// reports or studies addressing specific site issues

Question 67

What documents are required by the building & safety department for approval of a building permits?

Answer 67

// the building & safety department will require construction drawings clearly identifying all major code issues related to life safety and accessibility

// if the project is an essential services building, public school, or hospital, specifications will typically be required as well

Question 68

Why is it important to properly design, construct, and install non-structural elements within a building?

Answer 68

// in most cast, the value of non-structural elements (such as equipment and assemblies for electrical and mechanical systems) far exceeds the value of the building structure

// if these elements are not properly braced and secured, they could sustain severe damage in the event of an earthquake and ultimately cause a building to lose service, in addition to substantially adding to the repair costs of the building

Question 69

What considerations for special structural loading need to be taken into account by a structural engineer?

Answer 69

// increase in dead load calculations

// special structural loading: increase in concentrated loads (snow, heavy equipment, library shelving, etc)

Question 70

Name a few ways a structural engineer could accommodate a project for special loading requirements.

Answer 70

// deeper beams and floor joists

// closer spaced beams and/or joists

// closer column spacing

// any combination of the above

Question 71

An historic building is undergoing a structural evaluation and there is a concern about the floor structure. How should the architect respond and what solutions could be recommended?

Answer 71

// the architect should meet with the structural engineer in order to gain all the necessary information required as wel as receive possible solutions with the engineer

// the owner should be included in these discussions as well

// the architect could suggest to increase the floor sub-structure by adding joists, or if this will have an adverse affect on the building, capacity could be limited in the space to what the floor can safely accommodate

Question 72

An owner is concerned that adding columns will disrupt the exterior aesthetic on an addition project. The structural engineer has determined these columns will be required. How do you respond to the owner?

Answer 72

// the architect should inform the owner of the evaluation by the structural engineer and coordinate a meeting with both parties to discuss possible design solutions

// the final decision will be up to the owner, however the design must meet all applicable code requirements regarding structural minimums

Question 73

What design options does an architect have if an owner wants to pursue LEED accreditation but is on a budget?

Answer 73

// the owner should maximize the use and specification of passive energy efficient design as these options are typically less expensive than active systems. features include:

// proper solar orientation for daylighting

// overhangs to control amount of sun light

// natural ventilation through operable windows

// materials appropriate to climate, such as concrete in hot or cold climates for insulation

Question 74

If the owner decides to change a wood framed wall to floor to ceiling glass, what effect will this have on the building and interior environment?

Answer 74

// the additional glass will expose the building to increase in solar heat gain or loss and may require a larger HVAC system

// with the addition of daylight into the space, the lighting levels may need adjustment

// any wires, pipes, ducts, etc that were concealed in the wall will have to be relocated

Question 75

What are two conditions that entitle the architect to compensation for additional services?

Answer 75

// if the service is mutually agreed to in writing by the architect and owner

// a change is required due to circumstances outside the architect’s control, such as code revisions or passing of new laws

Question 76

According to the California Green Building Code, what environmental controls are required in a workplace?

Answer 76

// in a single occupant space (office, cubicle): 90% must have individual task lighting, daylight controls, or both. 50% must have thermal comfort controls, operable windows, or both

// in multiple occupant spaces (classrooms, conference rooms): all spaces must have overall lighting and thermal comfort controls

Question 77

What are four characteristics that should be considered when specifying materials for a project?

Answer 77

// properties of appropriate use

// suitable for interior use (no or limited off-gassing)

// suitable for exterior use (ability to withstand sun, wind, and rain)

// maintenance: how often does it need to be maintained

Question 78

What are four performance criteria that should be maintained when specifying materials for a project?

Answer 78

// how well does it hold up to the elements: uv exposure, rain snow, wind

// does it perform as expected/designed

// durability: how well does it perform for its intended use

// life of material: how long is it projected to last

Question 79

Name five building materials that have standards within the California Building Code.

Answer 79

// concrete: foundations, walls, floor and roof decks

// masonry: retaining walls, building walls

// wood: wall, roof, and floor framing

// steel: wall, roof, and floor framing

// gypsum: wall sheathing

Question 80

What questions should an architect ask when specifying the use of green building materials?

Answer 80

// what is the recycled content of the material?

// is it made from plant based sources?

// does it have a low chemical emissions rating?

// is the product natural or minimally processed?

// does it have a low embodied energy rating?

Question 81

What is the CSI Master Format and how is this reference helpful in project design?

Answer 81

// the CSI master format is used for materials classification and includes information and descriptions of products in regards to performance requirements, quality standards, submittal requirements, warranties, delivery and storage, installation and maintenance

// this is helpful as a source for material specifications when choosing materials and products during project design

Question 82

Describe four different types of projects and the specific requirements of each.

Answer 82

// public: include requirements of the public contract code

// essential services building: include provisions of the Essential Services Buildings Seismic Safety Act

// public schools: include requirements of the Field Act

// private: maintain CBC standards

Question 83

Name two types of specialized buildings other than Essential Services Buildings and give three examples of each.

Answer 83

// assembly: church, movie theater, arena

// public: library, schools, city hall

Question 84

What drawings are produced during schematic design?

Answer 84

// conceptual site plan

// preliminary building plans, sections, and elevations

// outline specification (possibly)

// estimate of the cost of work

Question 85

Name the four drawings developed during design development and state how they differ from schematic design drawings.

Answer 85

// plans, sections, & elevations

// typical construction details

// outline specification (updated)

// updated estimate of the cost of the work

// the main difference between SD and DD drawings is that the level of detail is higher once drawings reach the end of the DD phase

Question 86

The architect is responsible for coordinating what four documents during the construction documents phase?

Answer 86

// contract drawings (project plan set)

// project manual (specs, general/supplementary conditions)

// invitation to bidders/instructions to bidders

// updated estimate of the cost of work

Question 87

What item does the architect assist the owner with during the bidding or negotiation phase?

Answer 87

// establishing a list of prospective contractors

// obtaining either competitive bids or negotiated proposals

// confirming responsiveness of bids or proposals

// determining the successful bid or proposal

// awarding and preparing contracts for construction

Question 88

What responsibilities does the architect have in bidding the project?

Answer 88

// distribute bidding documents to prospective bidders, maintaining a log of distribution

// organizing and conducting a pre-bid conference for bidders

// preparing responses to questions from bidders and issuing addenda

// organizing and conducting opening of the bids and distributing the bid results

Question 89

During bidding, a contractor notices a discrepancy in the contract documents. What should he/she do?

Answer 89

// the contractor should contact the architect upon discovery of the conflicting information and request clarification

// if the contractor does not report the issue, it could negatively affect his/her bid or could be grounds for disqualification

Question 90

If an architect is made aware of an error, omission, or conflict of information in the contract documents during bidding, what should he/she do?

Answer 90

// the architect should verify the error, omission or conflict of information and discuss any necessary changes with the owner

// the architect will then respond to all the bidding contractors through an addendum notifying all parties of the new changes

Question 91

If an owner does not want to bid a project, what other options are available?

Answer 91

// the owner may choose to directly negotiate with a single contractor of his/her choice, or can request negotiated proposals from contractors in order to select which should perform the work

// another option would be to seek out design/build services from an architect or enginner, however this is usually decided upon early in the project

Question 92

Describe a negotiated contract.

Answer 92

// a negotiated contract is awarded on the basis of a direct agreement with a contractor

// this process does not require competitive bidding and is often times a preferred approach for private projects

// this may NOT be used on public projects as they are required to abide by the regulations of the public contract code

Question 93

What services is the architect responsible for regarding negotiated proposals?

Answer 93

// 1: distribute proposal documents to prospective contractors

// 2: organize and participate in selection interviews with prospective contractors

// 3: participate in negotiations with prospective contractors

// 4: prepare a summary report of the negotiation results