As Architects we strive to improve our built spaces, improve society, lives, and inspire people.
Today, architects face a rapidly changing environment, many shared across the AECO industry, but also some unique or at least more prominent within Architecture. Architectural practices face many challenges today, such as staff and skills shortages, clients demanding more and more complex buildings at lower and lower costs.
The Building Control Act in Ireland mandates the submission of a Commencement Notice, Design Certificate, and preliminary Inspection Plan.
It also mandates obtaining Disability Access and Fire Safety Certificates for applicable projects to ensure safety and regulatory compliance.
For more information on how we can assist with these requirements, visit our construction page.
Designing buildings to achieve certification such as BREEM and meeting sustainability goals in general is increasingly challenging as client expectations rise. Unfortunately, we are not seeing a similar rise in fees, increasing pressure to deliver efficiently.
Architects cite poor communication as the primary reason projects overrun and loss of profitability. There are many ways of communicating on projects, perhaps too many, making a situation that has always been high risk even riskier.
Some of the most common risks are:
New technology can help us minimise these risks, with new material innovations and methods like modular construction, 3D printing, mass timber, and self-healing concrete. All this is without factoring in the development of new hardware and software used within the design and project delivery process.
Addressing the need for proficiency in advanced design tools is essential for contemporary architectural practices — effective project execution and innovation hinge on utilising the right tools and training.
Specialised Training
Our Autodesk Training Courses offer in-depth knowledge and practical skills in industry-leading tools like Revit and AutoCAD. This training ensures your team remains proficient with the latest technologies, enhancing their ability to tackle complex challenges with advanced design solutions.
Comprehensive Tool Suite
We provide the AEC Collection, which includes essential tools for building design, civil infrastructure, and construction.
Features like real-time data sharing, 3D visualisation, and seamless integration with various design process and structural engineering applications enhance collaboration and efficiency throughout your projects.
These sustainable solutions enable architectural firms to address industry challenges effectively, ensuring high project delivery and operational excellence standards.
We are also seeing an unprecedented shortage in staff and skills in the Industry. With 63% of trades struggling to find staff to meet project requirements in 2023 and a predicted 8.3% rise in labour costs due to high demand, it is no surprise that many organisations state this is the biggest issue they face.
Yet another ‘hot topic’ in the Construction industry is Digital transformation. This is seen as a bit of a buzzword (or phrase) but rather than an issue facing the industry it can be harnessed to be part of the solution to many of the challenges we face. Some of examples of what this would look like include:
Digital transformation helps identify issues early in the design and construction process, minimising material waste and improving resource efficiency.
Enhanced digital tools and platforms streamline communication among project stakeholders, reducing misunderstandings and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
Advanced technologies like BIM (Building Information Modeling) allow for detailed planning and visualisation, significantly reducing the likelihood of errors during construction.
Digital platforms enable real-time collaboration between architects, engineers, and contractors, fostering a more integrated approach to project management.
Automation and digital workflows optimise various processes, from design to construction, leading to faster project completion and better overall performance.
NTI Diatec can advise you on many of these issues and others impacting your business.
We have a track record of over 30 years’ experience in helping our clients plan and deliver their business strategy, working as partners to deliver business change, implement new software solutions, and train and enable staff to realise the benefits.
We ensure that you maximise the returns on your investment and realise the return on that investment as quickly as possible.
Don't hesitate to contact us to explore how we can support your projects and grow your business.
