Architect's responsibilties. He's holding a project above him
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Architect’s Responsibilities: Define, Design, Manage, Lead, Collaborate

As an architect, it is important to understand the various responsibilities that come with the job. These responsibilities range from the initial design stage to the completion of the construction process. Architects must take into account various factors such as budget, regulations, and construction materials when designing a building. They must also collaborate with contractors, engineers, and clients to ensure the building is constructed according to their design. In addition to designing, architects also have to oversee the construction process, making sure that it runs smoothly and that the building is constructed according to the plans. It is also the architect’s responsibility to obtain the necessary permits and approvals for the building, and to ensure that it meets the necessary safety and building codes. Throughout the entire process, it is the architect’s responsibility to maintain communication with all parties involved, to keep everyone informed of any changes or updates.

Architect and construction meeting with constractor.
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Construction Meeting Best Practices

Construction meetings are key to the success of a construction project. There are three main types of meetings: preconstruction conference, regular progress meetings, and pre-installation meetings. The purpose of the preconstruction conference is to clarify responsibilities and schedules before construction starts. The attendees typically include the owner, architect, contractor, and consultants. A well-structured agenda should include administrative procedures, submittal schedule review, and payment applications. Regular progress meetings are held to monitor progress and address any issues that arise during construction. The attendees are the owner, architect, and contractor. The purpose of pre-installation meetings is to review plans and details before installation begins. Attendees include the owner, architect, contractor, subcontractors, and consultants. Proper preparation and a well-structured agenda make construction meetings effective and efficient.

A construction contractor in Hawaii receiving a check.
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Contractor Progress Payments 101

Contractor Progress Payments play a crucial role in the construction process. Without timely payments, the work progress can be disrupted, leading to a possible work stoppage. In order to ensure the orderly progression of work, it is important to prioritize payment application reviews and schedules. The AIA Document 702TM-1992 and G703TM-1992 are forms used to list the scheduled values for various parts of the work and to certify that the work is in compliance with the contract documents. The contractor’s application for payment also includes a notarized certification of the work status, supported by an express warranty to the owner and architect that the materials and equipment are new and free from defects. The architect’s review of the payment application includes a review of the “balance-to-complete” amount to ensure that there are sufficient funds to complete the work. Should the balance-to-complete be insufficient, a meeting is called with the owner and contractor to discuss actions required to complete the work.

Architect and contractor discussing construction scope changes at project site
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Construction Scope Changes: Managing Alterations

Construction projects are complex endeavors that involve many moving parts and variables. One of the most significant challenges that project managers face is managing changes to the project’s scope. Construction scope changes can have a significant impact on the project’s timeline, budget, and overall success. Construction scope changes refer to any modifications made to the original project plan. These changes can range from minor adjustments to major overhauls and can occur at any stage of the project. Some common examples of construction scope changes include: adding or removing a feature or component, changing the design or layout of a building, modifying the materials or methods used, and adjusting the project’s timeline or budget. Construction scope changes can happen for a variety of reasons such as unforeseen challenges or obstacles during the project, changes in the client’s needs or preferences, new information or technologies becoming available, cost overruns or budget constraints, and regulatory or code compliance issues. The impact of these changes can include delays in the project’s completion, increased costs or budget overruns, reduced quality or functionality of the final product, and disruption to the project’s schedule. To minimize the negative effects and ensure the success of the project, effective management strategies include establishing clear procedures for requesting and approving scope changes, communicating changes clearly and regularly to all stakeholders, incorporating change management into the project’s overall plan, regularly reviewing and updating the project’s budget and timeline, and considering the impact of scope changes on the project’s overall goals and objectives.

The architect conducting a construction site visit
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Construction Site Visits and Observation: The Architects Role

Construction site visits are crucial for ensuring safety, compliance, and quality control on a project. These visits allow for inspections, assessments, and evaluations to be conducted, which can help identify and resolve any issues that may arise. By having a clear understanding of the project’s progress, stakeholders can make informed decisions that will keep the project on track and within budget. Additionally, construction site visits can help to minimize the risk of accidents, injuries, and other costly incidents. Proper planning, organization, and communication are key to making the most of these visits, and can help ensure that the project runs smoothly from start to finish. With the right approach and the right tools, construction site visits can be an effective way to keep a project on track, and ensure that the end result is of the highest quality.

Construction mockup of pool.
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Types and Purpose of Construction Mockups

Construction mockups are physical or virtual models of a building or structure that are used during the design and construction phases. These models are used to test the design, check the structural integrity, and validate the final product before the actual construction begins. This blog post discusses the different types of construction mockups such as Performance Mockup (PMU), Structural Mockup and Design Mockup. It also covers the purpose of these mockups and the contract documents that are relevant to them. By building a mockup, architects, engineers, and contractors can identify any potential issues before the actual construction begins, which can save time and money in the long run. This post will give you an understanding of the importance and benefits of construction mockups in the construction industry.

Construction Welds on a structural steel building in Hawaii
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation

Understanding Construction Welding

This post is about the importance of Construction Welding in the construction industry. Welding is the process of joining two or more pieces of metal together by heating them to a high temperature and applying pressure. There are many different types of welding, each with its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. The six most common types of welding used in construction are fillet weld, butt weld, lap weld, T-weld, corner weld, and edge weld. Fillet welds are triangular in shape and are used to join two pieces of metal at a 90-degree angle, often used in structural steel fabrication, and can be found in a variety of building structures, including bridges and buildings. Butt welds, on the other hand, are used to join two pieces of metal that are in line with each other, often used in pipe welding, as well as in the fabrication of large structures such as tanks and pressure vessels. The American Welding Society (AWS) is an industry organization that sets the standards for welding and offers several levels of certification for welders. Additionally, the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) offers a certification for welding procedures and personnel. Understanding the different types of welding, the specific purposes they serve, and the certifications required for welders, will help architects make informed decisions about the use of welding in construction projects.

AIA Contract Documents the Key to Construction Success
Architect Registration Exam, Construction and Evaluation, Hawaii Drafting Service

AIA Contract Documents: The Key to Construction Success

IA Contract Documents are a set of important forms and agreements used in construction industry, including key concepts and forms like the Request for Information (RFI) form, the Basic Services form, and Change Order form, which are used to ensure everyone involved in a project is on the same page. They provide a standard format for construction projects and are widely recognized and accepted in the industry.