Practice Exam 2

Question 1

What is a best practice for managing contractor RFIs?

Answer 1

Using project management software to create, track, and manage RFIs effectively.

Question 2

Why is maintaining an RFI log considered a best practice?

Answer 2

It helps track the order of review, date received, and due dates, ensuring timely responses and efficient management.

Question 3

How do standard file naming conventions support RFI management?

Answer 3

They make files easier to find, less confusing, and more searchable, improving overall project efficiency.

Question 4

What is the architect’s responsibility regarding the contractor’s submittal schedule per B101, Article 3.6.4.1?

Answer 4

The architect must review and approve the contractor’s submittal schedule to appropriately staff the project during the construction phase. This should not be confused with the project schedule, which is the contractor’s sole responsibility and not subject to the architect’s review or approval.

Question 5

When does the architect conduct inspections of the work according to AIA B101?

Answer 5

The architect conducts inspections only at substantial completion and final completion per B101, Article 3.6.6.1. While the architect visits the site to observe work at intervals appropriate to the stage of construction (Article 3.6.2.1), these visits are not considered inspections.

Question 6

Which design criteria are typically established by zoning regulations?

Answer 6

Building setbacks,
Signage requirements,
Parking requirements

Question 7

Which criteria are not established by zoning regulations but are determined by the building code?

Answer 7

Construction type
Occupancy, classification

Question 8

What is a firm’s commissioning checklist, and what is its purpose?

Answer 8

A firm’s commissioning checklist is a tool used to ensure that building systems are designed, installed, and functioning as intended. It includes steps for verifying that the project meets the owner’s requirements, complies with design specifications, and operates efficiently. This checklist is typically used by the commissioning authority during pre-design, design, construction, and post-occupancy phases.

Question 9

Which performance and design criteria should be included for commissioning and exterior wall design?

Answer 9

Joints at system interfaces: Critical to prevent building performance failures by ensuring proper detailing and material compatibility.

Structural support: Essential for stability and avoiding settling that could compromise the wall system’s integrity.

Material/finish durability: Ensures the building performs as intended, with finishes lasting appropriately.

Barrier issues: Proper use of air, vapor, and other barriers is crucial for expected building envelope performance.

Question 10

What information is typically requested as part of an RFQ (Request for Qualifications) submittal?

Answer 10

Similar project experience: Demonstrates the architect’s expertise for the new project.

Previous client references: Allows the client to vet the architect and ensure compatibility.

Letter of interest: Shows the firm’s enthusiasm, understanding of the project, and motivations beyond financial gain.

Question 11

What is a typical architectural fee percentage for the bidding and negotiations phase?

Answer 11

Five percent.

Question 12

What is the typical architectural fee percentage for the construction documents and bidding/negotiations phase of a BIM project?

Answer 12

25%. This is because BIM projects spend more time in the earlier phases creating the model, leading to less time spent on documentation.

Question 13

In a typical design-bid-build project, what percentage of the total fee is accounted for by the construction documents and bidding phases combined?

Answer 13

About 45%.

Question 14

Which AIA forms are appropriate for an architect hired as the design architect for an existing project team that has an architect of record and an interior designer?

Answer 14

B101: Agreement between the architect and owner. It outlines services, scope, payment, and responsibilities between the architect and the owner.

C101: Agreement between architects. Used when there are multiple architects on a project, explaining scope, collaboration, and payment terms.

C401: Agreement between an architect and a consultant. This form is used when the architect hires consultants directly, outlining scope and payment terms.

Question 15

How do you calculate the architect’s labor percentage from the total fee when given the following variables?

Client’s budget: $3,500,000
Architect’s fee percentage: 8%
Consultant’s fee percentage: 25%
Architect’s profit percentage: 15%

Answer 15

Calculate the total architect’s fee:
Multiply the client’s budget by the architect’s fee percentage.
$3,500,000 x 8% = $280,000

Subtract the consultant’s fee:
Multiply the total fee by 75% (since 100% – 25% = 75%).
$280,000 x 75% = $210,000 (the fee remaining after consultants are paid).

Calculate the architect’s profit:
Multiply the architect’s total fee by the profit percentage.
$280,000 x 15% = $42,000 profit.

Subtract the profit from the remaining fee:
$210,000 – $42,000 = $168,000 (the amount left for labor).

Calculate the labor percentage:
Divide the labor amount by the total architect’s fee.
$168,000 / $280,000 = 60%

Conclusion:
60% of the total architect’s fee is allocated for labor.

Question 16

An AIA member has been found guilty by the National Ethics Council of not giving appropriate professional credit to their former firm when publishing completed projects on their personal website. Which of the following penalties can the National Ethics Council impose?

Answer 16

Nonpublic admonishment
The National Ethics Council can issue a nonpublic admonishment, which is a common punishment for relatively minor infractions. This involves privately warning and reprimanding the AIA member about their actions.

Question 17

When would the suspension of a license apply to an architect?

Answer 17

Suspension or revocation of a license is determined by individual jurisdictions, not the AIA. It typically applies when the architect has committed serious ethical violations, such as criminal activity, gross negligence, or unethical conduct that directly endangers public safety or violates licensing laws.

Question 18

When might a monetary fine be imposed on an architect?

Answer 18

Monetary fines may be imposed by governmental bodies or legal jurisdictions, not the AIA. These fines are typically applied when an architect violates local laws or regulations, such as failing to pay taxes, violating building codes, or engaging in criminal activity. The AIA, as a trade organization, does not have the authority to impose monetary fines.

Question 19

When might civil penalties be imposed on an architect?

Answer 19

Civil penalties are imposed by the legal system, not the AIA. These penalties may apply when an architect violates laws or regulations that result in harm to others, such as negligence, fraud, or breach of contract. The affected party must file a lawsuit in the appropriate legal jurisdiction to seek civil penalties, which may include financial compensation for damages.

Question 20

What are the steps in the Evidence-Based Design process?

Answer 20

Question,
Collect data,
Hypothesize,
Design,
Construct,
Analyze,
Refine question,
Share results

Question 21

What factors should be considered when selecting technologies for design and documentation? Check the three that apply.

Answer 21

Knowledge management
Technologies for knowledge management help architects manage collective wisdom by integrating data collection and documentation into existing management practices.

Project schedule
Technologies like BIM help shorten project durations, tighten production control, and improve schedule conformance.

Project delivery method
The project delivery method influences how technologies are applied. Different methods (e.g., design-bid-build, design-build, etc.) require different approaches to coordination, communication, and documentation, impacting the choice of technology.

Question 22

What is the role of building codes in selecting technologies for design and documentation?

Answer 22

Building codes impact the design of a project, but they do not directly influence the choice of technologies and software an architect uses for design and documentation.

Question 23

How does the project site influence the selection of technologies for design and documentation?

Answer 23

The project site and jurisdiction affect the design of the building, but they do not impact the choice of technologies used for design and documentation.

Question 24

How does firm size affect the selection of technologies for design and documentation?

Answer 24

Firm size does not dictate the choice of technologies and software an architect uses for design and documentation. The selection is based on other factors, such as project needs and objectives.

Question 25

What is a project team member check-in, and how does it relate to quality control in a firm’s process?

Answer 25

A project team member check-in is a method described in the firm’s process to ensure that team members are on task to meet deadlines and that the project is on track. Internal communication is essential for managing quality control and project progress.

Question 26

How do task checklists contribute to quality control in a firm’s process?

Answer 26

Task checklists are a crucial part of project management and quality control. They help ensure that team members are clear about their roles and allow the project manager to track the progress of work.

Question 27

What is an internal quality control review, and how does it fit into the firm’s process?

Answer 27

An internal quality control review is conducted by the project manager, who is part of the project team. It ensures the work is meeting the firm’s quality standards and is an essential part of the firm’s process for managing quality control.

Question 28

What are working redline sets, and how do they contribute to quality control in the firm’s process?

Answer 28

Working redline sets are a part of the firm’s quality control process, where the project manager reviews and marks up the current set of drawings to ensure accuracy and compliance with project standards.

Question 29

How does a peer review differ from the quality control review conducted by the project manager?

Answer 29

A peer review is a review conducted by another professional at the same level but outside of the project team, whereas the project manager’s quality control review is internal and involves checking the work within the team.

Question 30

Why is extensive experience working on projects similar to the proposed project important when responding to an RFP?

Answer 30

Experience with projects of the same type as the proposed project (e.g., multi-family, hospitality) demonstrates the firm’s relevant expertise, making it a strong qualification for the prospective client.

Question 31

Why is having more than half of a firm’s clients as repeat customers a valuable qualification to highlight in an RFP?

Answer 31

Repeat clients indicate that the firm consistently delivers quality work, understands client needs, and builds long-term relationships, all of which are valuable to the prospective client.

Question 32

How does a firm’s experience with the USGBC LEED certification program relate to relevant qualifications for an RFP?

Answer 32

While experience with LEED certification is valuable, it may not always be directly relevant to every project. It is not universally applicable to all project types and thus might not be the best example to highlight in this case.

Question 33

Why would the principal architect’s graduation from the same university as the client not be relevant for an RFP?

Answer 33

Shared educational backgrounds, such as attending the same university, do not demonstrate the architect’s relevant experience or skills in architectural services and are not significant qualifications for the project.

Question 34

Why is designing many buildings in the same market as the client’s company an important qualification to highlight in an RFP?

Answer 34

Experience in the same market sector (e.g., educational, industrial, or civic buildings) shows that the firm is familiar with the specific needs and challenges of that market, making it a relevant qualification for the prospective client.

Question 35

Why is experience working in the same town as the proposed project valuable in an RFP?

Answer 35

Familiarity with local city codes, ordinances, and regulations enhances the firm’s ability to navigate local requirements, which makes the firm well-suited for the proposed project.

Question 36

Why should the exterior wall specifications be finalized at the end of the CD phase?

Answer 36

At the end of the CD phase, all exterior wall specifications should be complete to ensure accuracy and clarity in the construction documents before the project moves forward.

Question 37

Why is it important to confirm that the owner’s project requirements (OPR) are included in the exterior wall commissioning checklist?

Answer 37

Confirming that the OPR are included ensures that the project meets the owner’s expectations and requirements. It’s crucial for aligning the design with the client’s needs before the final construction documents are issued.

Question 38

Why are means and methods drawings not included in the exterior wall commissioning checklist?

Answer 38

The architect is not responsible for means and methods, which are typically provided by the contractor. Including them in the architectural drawing set could expose the architect to undesired liability.

Question 39

Why must exterior elevations be graphically complete at the end of the CD phase?

Answer 39

At the end of the CD phase, all exterior elevations should be complete and clearly labeled to ensure that all exterior walls are accurately depicted and easily referenced in the drawing set.

Question 40

Why should foundation sections be completed at the end of the CD phase?

Answer 40

Foundation sections are critical to the building envelope. Incomplete foundation details can lead to issues like water intrusion or poor thermal performance, so they must be finalized at the end of the CD phase.

Question 41

Why is it incorrect to note exterior wall performance criteria on the drawings rather than in the specifications?

Answer 41

Exterior wall performance criteria should be documented in the specifications to provide detailed information about performance standards, while the drawings focus on visual and construction details.

Question 42

What factor determines whether a worker is classified as a full-time employee or an independent contractor based on financial control?

Answer 42

If the worker controls the business aspects of their job, such as paying for their own expenses and having the opportunity for both financial gains and losses, they are more likely to be classified as an independent contractor. Employees are typically paid a fixed salary and do not bear such financial risks.

Question 43

How does the type of relationship influence whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor?

Answer 43

If a worker receives employee benefits such as insurance, pensions, or paid time off, they are more likely to be classified as an employee. If the worker does not receive these benefits, they may be classified as an independent contractor.

Question 44

Why is the number of hours worked not a determining factor in whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor?

Answer 44

The number of hours worked does not determine employment status. Both employees and independent contractors can work varying hours, so the nature of the relationship is more important than the number of hours worked.

Question 45

How does the degree of behavioral control affect whether a worker is classified as an employee or an independent contractor?

Answer 45

If the employer has the right to control what and how the worker performs their tasks, the worker is more likely to be classified as an employee. If the employer does not control the methods used by the worker, they are more likely to be classified as an independent contractor.

Question 46

Why is the location where work is performed not a determining factor in whether a worker is an employee or an independent contractor?

Answer 46

The location where work is performed (e.g., home office or company office) does not affect the classification. Employment status is based on other factors such as control over the work and the type of relationship between the worker and employer.

Question 47

How does spending more time on non-billable tasks affect the firm’s profitability?

Answer 47

Profit

Spending more time on non-billable tasks leads to fewer billable hours, which decreases gross revenue, potentially lowering profit.

Question 48

Which metric is impacted by the number of billable hours an architect works, and the amount of non-billable tasks they perform?

Answer 48

Gross revenue

Gross revenue is directly affected by the number of billable hours. More non-billable tasks result in reduced billable hours and lower revenue.

Question 49

Which financial metric remains unaffected by the amount of time an architect spends on non-billable tasks?

Answer 49

Workers’ compensation premiums

Workers’ compensation premiums are based on employee classification and payroll, not the amount of time spent on billable or non-billable tasks.

Question 50

Why does spending more time on non-billable tasks not affect the net multiplier?

Answer 50

Net multiplier

The net multiplier is determined by an annual profit plan, so a single week’s change in billable time has negligible impact on it for the current or future years.

Question 51

Which financial metric reflects how an architect’s non-billable work time affects the overall revenue generated by the firm?

Answer 51

Expenses

The architect’s non-billable hours do not directly affect the firm’s expenses, as this metric is related to operational costs and not individual productivity.

Question 52

Question: What qualification of a construction manager can impact the success of a project?

Answer 52

Constructability expertise.
Explanation: The construction manager’s knowledge of the realities of actually building the design can significantly impact changes and conflicts during construction.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9.2

Question 53

What qualification of a construction manager can impact the success of

Answer 53

Team chemistry.
Explanation: Although not the most critical, good team relationships foster collaboration, which is key to a successful project.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9.2

Question 54

Does LEED certification impact the success of a construction manager on a project?

Answer 54

No.
Explanation: While LEED certification shows understanding of sustainable principles, it does not directly impact the construction manager’s ability to manage the success of the project.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9.2

Question 55

Does the office size of the construction manager impact their success on the project?

Answer 55

No.
Explanation: The office size may influence capacity but does not impact the actual success of the project, especially if the firm has completed similar jobs.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9.2

Question 56

Does proximity to the job site affect a construction manager’s success?

Answer 56

No.
Explanation: Although proximity reduces fees, the location does not necessarily impact a construction manager’s success, as a better-suited manager may be found further away.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9.2

Question 57

What is the purpose of using mock-ups in a project?

Answer 57

Mock-ups
Explanation: Mock-ups are used to create a tangible model of the desired outcome before committing to the final construction, ensuring design intent is achievable.

Reference (back of card): The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, pp. 304-305

Question 58

What is the role of a code plan review in quality assurance?

Answer 58

Code plan review
Explanation: A code plan review involves reviewing the drawing set to ensure compliance with local codes, ensuring that the project meets legal and quality standards.

Reference (back of card): The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, pp. 304-305

Question 59

How do submittals contribute to quality assurance in a project?

Answer 59

Submittals
Explanation: Submittals are reviewed to verify that the subcontractor’s or fabricator’s work meets the design intent, ensuring quality in materials and construction methods.

Reference (back of card): The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, pp. 304-305

Question 60

What is the benefit of conducting a peer review in the design process?

Answer 60

Peer review
Explanation: Peer review is when another team member or architect reviews the drawing set, helping to catch potential errors and ensure quality control.

Reference (back of card): The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, pp. 304-305

Question 61

Does printing final drawings in-house contribute to quality assurance?

Answer 61

Printing final drawings in-house
Explanation: Printing drawings in-house does not directly contribute to ensuring quality in the design or construction process, so it is not considered a QA process.

Reference (back of card): The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, pp. 304-305

Question 62

How are addenda used in a project?

Answer 62

Addenda
Explanation: Addenda are used to provide information or clarify project details but are not considered part of the quality assurance process.

Reference (back of card): The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, pp. 304-305

Question 63

Which log helps track phone communications during construction administration?

Answer 63

Answer: Phone log

Explanation: A phone log is used to track the progress of the project and serves as a tool for recording and verifying communication between team members during the construction phase.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 594-595

Question 64

Question: What is the purpose of a submittal log in construction administration?

Answer 64

Answer: Submittal log

Explanation: A submittal log is used to track the progress of submittals during construction, ensuring that all required materials and documents are reviewed and approved in a timely manner.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 594-595

Question 65

What is the most likely result if a consultant’s professional liability insurance is inadequate and damages need to be paid?

Answer 65

Answer: The liability transfers to the architect and their insurer.

Explanation: In situations where a consultant’s insurance is inadequate, many legal cases have found the architect ultimately responsible for the work. This can extend to the situation where the consultant’s negligence results in damages, as the architect is contracted for the overall project. Even if there is an indemnification clause in the consultant’s agreement, it may not fully protect the architect if the consultant’s insurance is insufficient.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, p. 174

Question 66

Question: Which of the following items is not typically included in an employee handbook?

Answer 66

Answer: Costs of benefits package

Explanation: Employee handbooks typically include general information about available benefits but do not include detailed costs for benefits packages. Such information is usually distributed separately, often during annual enrollment periods, and may be subject to changes on a yearly basis.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 452-456

Question 67

What items are typically included in an employee handbook? Check the three that apply.

Acknowledgement and receipt of handbook?

Human resources contact information?

Costs of benefits package?

Standards on workplace violence prevention?

Answer 67

Answer:

Acknowledgement and receipt of handbook

Human resources contact information

Standards on workplace violence prevention

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 452-456

Question 68

Why can energy consumption be studied using BIM technology?

Answer 68

Energy consumption: BIM technology can create energy models that simulate and analyze energy consumption, helping to improve building performance over its lifecycle.

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 1026-1028

Question 69

Why can life cycle analysis be studied using BIM technology?

Answer 69

Life cycle analysis: BIM technology enables the simulation of a building’s lifecycle, including long-term costs, maintenance, and energy consumption, facilitating better decision-making.

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 1026-1028

Question 70

Why can project cost be studied using BIM technology?

Answer 70

Project cost: BIM assists in cost estimation by providing real-time data on materials, labor, and other resources, improving accuracy in budgeting and managing costs.

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 1026-1028

Question 71

Why is project billing not something that can be studied with BIM technology?

Answer 71

Project billings: BIM does not handle accounting tasks like project billings. These are typically managed with specialized accounting software.

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 1026-1028

Question 72

Why is consultant coordination not typically managed through BIM technology?

Answer 72

Consultant coordination: Although BIM improves coordination in terms of coordinated drawings, managing consultant coordination is handled outside BIM by the architect.

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 1026-1028

Question 73

Why is project schedule not studied using BIM technology?

Answer 73

Project schedule: BIM does not study the project schedule itself, though it can help optimize the design and identify potential schedule issues. Project scheduling is typically managed through separate scheduling software.

Reference:
The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 1026-1028

Question 74

Why is the owner responsible for furnishing civil surveys in an AIA Owner-Architect agreement?

Answer 74

The owner is responsible for furnishing civil surveys because they are required to provide surveys that describe the legal and physical characteristics of the project site, which are essential for the architect to develop the design.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 409-410

Question 75

Why is the owner responsible for providing information and approvals in a timely manner in an AIA Owner-Architect agreement?

Answer 75

The owner is responsible for providing information and approvals in a timely manner because delays in providing essential information can impact the project’s schedule and progress, and can cause delays to the design and construction phases.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 409-410

Question 76

Why is the architect responsible for coordinating design-team consultants in an AIA Owner-Architect agreement?

Answer 76

The architect is responsible for coordinating the work of design-team consultants under the C401 agreement, ensuring that their work aligns with the project’s design and objectives.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 409-410

Question 77

Why is the owner not required to contract with the architect to hire environmental consultants in an AIA Owner-Architect agreement?

Answer 77

The owner is not required to contract with the architect to hire environmental consultants because it is the owner’s responsibility to directly contract these services, as they are outside the scope of the architect’s responsibilities.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 409-410

Question 78

Why is the owner responsible for providing and updating the project budget in an AIA Owner-Architect agreement?

Answer 78

The owner is responsible for establishing and updating the project budget because they are in control of the financial resources for the project, and it is essential for the architect to have an accurate budget for proper project planning and design.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 409-410

Question 79

Why is the owner responsible for furnishing a geotechnical report in an AIA Owner-Architect agreement?

Answer 79

The owner is responsible for furnishing the geotechnical report as it provides necessary information on the soil conditions and environmental factors that impact the design and construction of the facility.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th Edition, pp. 409-410

Question 80

Why can an architect sign and seal documents not prepared under their direct supervision in certain cases according to NCARB’s rules of conduct?

Answer 80

An architect can sign and seal documents not prepared under their direct supervision in two cases: (1) when reviewing standard manufacturer’s details or installer’s details, and (2) when reviewing prototypical building documents prepared by another architect from any jurisdiction, ensuring they conform with local codes.

Reference: NCARB Model Rules of Conduct, rule 5

Question 81

Why can an architect sign and seal standard manufacturer’s details or installer’s details not prepared under their supervision according to NCARB’s rules of conduct?

Answer 81

An architect can sign and seal these details if they have reviewed them, as these documents are generally standard and have been evaluated for their conformity with the project’s design requirements.

Reference: NCARB Model Rules of Conduct, rule 5

Question 82

Why can an architect sign and seal prototypical building documents not prepared under their supervision according to NCARB’s rules of conduct?

Answer 82

An architect can sign and seal prototypical building documents if they have reviewed the documents to ensure they conform with local codes, even if the documents were prepared by another architect from a different jurisdiction.

Reference: NCARB Model Rules of Conduct, rule 5

Question 83

Why can Employee A sign and seal the residential remodel documents prepared by a junior employee?

Answer 83

Employee A can sign and seal the residential remodel documents because they were prepared under their direct supervision, which is a situation where an architect can legally sign and seal documents according to NCARB’s rules of conduct.

Reference: NCARB Model Rules of Conduct, rule 5

Question 84

Why is reviewing and comparing bids a role of the architect when helping a client select a contractor?

Answer 84

The architect reviews and compares the bids to identify any anomalies, verify adherence to the bidding instructions, and ensure the bids align with the contract documents. The architect typically compiles a spreadsheet for easier comparison.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 85

Why is asking thoughtful questions during contractor interviews a role of the architect when helping the client select a contractor?

Answer 85

The architect is involved in the interview process to ask relevant questions about the bids, clarifying details and ensuring the client has the necessary information to make an informed decision.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 86

Why is commenting on personal or firm experience with a contractor a role of the architect when helping a client select a contractor?

Answer 86

The architect can assist by providing unbiased feedback about the contractor’s past work, ensuring that their comments remain professional and focused on the contractor’s ability to perform as expected.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 87

Why is reviewing references from a contractor’s completed projects a role of the architect when helping the client select a contractor?

Answer 87

The architect can follow up on references, review the contractor’s previous work, and provide insight into the contractor’s performance and reliability, helping the client make a more informed selection.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 88

What is the formula for calculating the project labor budget?

Answer 88

The project labor budget is calculated using the formula:

Project Labor Budget = Net Service Revenue - Direct Expense Budget - Contingency Budget

This formula ensures that the labor costs are appropriately accounted for by subtracting other necessary expenses from the total revenue.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9

Question 89

What is the typical percentage range for contingency amount based on an architect’s fee?

Answer 89

Contingency amounts are generally calculated as 2% to 10% of the architect’s fee, depending on the type of contingency. In this case, the contingency is 3%, which is within the typical range.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9

Question 90

What is included in the calculation of net service revenue (NSR)?

Gross Fee @ 7%: $700,000
Consultants Fees @ 40%: $280,000

Answer 90

NSR is calculated by subtracting consultant fees from the gross fee. If consultant fees are overbudgeted, it will result in a lower NSR than expected.

Formula: A - B
$700,000 - $280,000 = $420,000

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9

Question 91

What is the typical range for an architect’s fee based on the construction budget?

Answer 91

The architect’s fee is typically based on 7% of the estimated construction budget, which is within the standard range for architectural fees.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9

Question 92

What is the typical percentage of the budget allocated for consultant fees in architectural projects?

Answer 92

Typically, consultant fees are lower than 40% of the total budget, depending on the size of the project and the number of consultants involved. In this case, the architect has overbudgeted consultant fees at 40%.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 9

Question 93

Which consultant is required due to the extent of plumbing for the new coffee bar?

Answer 93

Plumbing consultant
A plumbing consultant is required for the design due to the complexity and extent of the plumbing needs for the coffee bar.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 94

Which consultant is required for the design of a new skylight structure and a stair structure?

Answer 94

Structural engineer
A structural engineer will be required to design the new skylight structure and stair structure.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 95

What is the fee for additional services if the construction cost of the scope revisions is $28,500 and the architect’s fee is based on 7% of the construction cost?

Answer 95

$2,850
The fee for additional services will be calculated at 10% of the construction cost of the scope revisions. Since the construction cost is $28,500, 10% of this amount equals $2,850.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 96

How do you solve for the architect’s percentage fee when given the gross project fee and architect’s fee?

Answer 96

Formula:
Architect’sPercentageFee = (Architect’sFee / GrossProjectFee) × 100

Example:
140,000 / 2,000,000 × 100 = 7%

Explanation:
The architect’s percentage fee is calculated by dividing the architect’s fee by the gross project fee and multiplying by 100 to express it as a percentage.

Reference: The Architect’s Handbook of Professional Practice, 15th edition, Chapter 10

Question 97

How many hours per week can Employee 4 devote to the project to stay on track for achieving the firm’s financial goals during the construction administration (CA) phase?

Answer 97

Formula:

1. Calculate the percentage of the architect’s fee allocated to the architectural staff for CA:

Architect’s fee for CA = Total CA Fee × (100% - Consultant Allocation Percentage)

2. Calculate the weekly fee:
   Weekly Fee = Architect’s Fee for CA / Number of Weeks for CA
3. Calculate the hours per week
   Employee 4 can work:
   Hours per Week = Weekly Fee / Employee’s Hourly Rate

Steps:

Find the percentage of the fee allocated to the architect’s staff for CA:
$60,200 / $215,000 = 28%
100% - 28% = 72%

Find the fee allocated to the architect’s staff for CA:
72% × $38,700 = $27,864

Find the weekly fee:
$27,864 / 11 weeks = $2,533.09 per week

Find the hours per week Employee 4 can work:
$2,533.09 / $110 per hour = 23 hours (rounded)

Explanation:
The calculation ensures that Employee 4 can work a reasonable number of hours per week based on the allocated CA fee and their hourly rate. The rounding accounts for work being distributed evenly across the project duration.

Reference: Firm Staffing Document and Project Budget

Question 98

Which team member is the best choice to manage the project?

Answer 98

Employee 6 is the best choice to manage the project because they have experience in office and restaurant design, which will be beneficial for the office and break room components of the project. Additionally, Employee 6 is the only project manager with experience working with the owner, which is crucial for effective client communication and project management.

Explanation:
The project manager needs to have both relevant design experience and familiarity with the owner, as managing client relationships and understanding project requirements are key to successful project execution.

Reference: Firm Project Team Selection Guidelines

Question 99

How do you calculate the percentage of time being spent on the project by Team 1?

Answer 99

To calculate the percentage of time Team 1 will spend on the project, follow these steps:

Determine total hours: The total project labor budget is 600 hours.

Determine Team 2’s hours: Team 2 works at the planned pace of 37.5 hours per week for 13 weeks:
37.5 hours/week × 13 weeks = 487.5 hours.
38.
Calculate Team 1’s hours: Subtract Team 2’s hours from the total project hours:
600 hours - 487.5 hours = 112.5 hours for Team 1.

Calculate Team 1’s percentage of total project hours:
112.5 hours ÷ 600 total hours = 18.75%, which rounds to 19%.

Explanation:
The percentage reflects the proportion of total project hours allocated to Team 1 after accounting for Team 2’s extended schedule.

Reference: Project Labor Budget Guidelines

Question 100

How do you calculate the fixed fee for the workplace portion of the project based on past project history?

Answer 100

To calculate the fixed fee for the workplace portion of the project, follow these steps:

Determine the historical cost per square foot:

1 year ago (Project 5): $79,200 ÷ 6,000 sf = $13.20 per sf
2 years ago (Project 1): $75,000 ÷ 6,250 sf = $12.00 per sf
Calculate the percentage increase:

$13.20 ÷ $12.00 = 1.1, which indicates a 10% increase in fees.
Determine the new cost per square foot:

$13.20 per sf × 1.1 = $14.52 per sf.
Calculate the total fixed fee for the workplace portion of the project:

Total area: 6,805 sf
$14.52 per sf × 6,805 sf = $98,808.60, rounded to $98,809.

Explanation:
The fixed fee is determined by applying the percentage increase in cost per square foot to the historical data, and then multiplying by the current total area of the workplace portion.

Reference: Project Fee Calculation Methods