Job Book 9th Edition - Book - Page 53
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Stage 0 > Strategic Definition: Supplementary Material: 0/SM3
0/SM3: Outline of possible roles for the architect
Some of the more common roles for the architect are described below, with a
brief summary of the likely duties under such a role. The detailed duties will be
as set out in the appointment documents, and the RIBA Plan of Work 2013 can
be used as a model when discussing the services to be provided.
A standard appointing document should preferably be used but this should
never be sent ‘cold’ to a client. It should first form a focus for discussion on the
professional services that need to be commissioned, and only then be completed
as a formal confirmation of what has been agreed.
If a preliminary appointment is needed pending formal agreement about the
full services to be provided, a letter can be used incorporating the appropriate
references. A letter activating appointment for specific stages can often be used
in conjunction with a formal appointing document. A variation in services already
formally agreed, or additional services to be provided, can often be imported by
a letter supplementing the original document. It is important to be meticulous
over such matters, however, and to take legal advice where appropriate.
Appointment of architect as lead designer or project lead
The architect will normally act as lead designer and as such is responsible
for coordinating and integrating the work of other design consultants and
specialists. Although design management has emerged as a separate skill, and
design managers are present as independently appointed consultants on some
larger projects (or work as part of the contractor’s team), the management and
coordination of design information from all sources throughout the process
should, in general, be regarded as a key component of the architect’s role.
In the traditional or conventional appointment, and particularly on smaller
projects, the architect will combine this role with that of project lead, including
contract administration. On larger projects, the architect’s commission
is increasingly being confined to certain stages of the RIBA Plan of Work, or
designated activities not necessarily to a Plan of Work format. Sometimes,
particularly in construction management procurement arrangements, the role
will be that of lead designer working under a project manager who is the first
point of contact for the client and may take on the role of contract administrator.
Sometimes the appointment will be for full services, but moving stage by stage.
With arrangements where a more flexible approach to appointment is necessary,
particular care is needed.
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