Reflections on the Conference
Overall I received the impression that the architecture profession is changing, though not as fast as the rest of the world. There seems to be widespread use and acceptance of BIM, according to the presentations I saw. I am a believer because it is happening in my firm as well.
There is excitement over Integrated Practice and Integrated Project Delivery, that there might be a diminishing of skepticism, mistrust and self-interest. The paradigm shift will be to people doing what's best for the projects and not just for themselves. Could it be that the Age of Aquarius has arrived?
I am encouraged to hear about tools that were being dreamed of a short time ago are being developed and actually utilized. With tools that help to analyze impacts and results of alternative designs and concepts, there is the promise of better solutions for clients and a better built environment for everyone.
A lot was said about knowledge management, and the distinction between knowledge and information. Those types of discussions help to get the wheels turning about what is really valuable in our firms and our lives.
You gotta love good collaboration. It's always better to have a star team than a star player. Notice should be given to bad collaborators.
There were excellent thoughts on changes that could be made to the architectural education system. I am a proponent of requiring internships and practical experience. For my entire career, the view I have taken of architecture school was that it provided a degree that qualifies one to get their "foot in the door" so they can start their real education in practice. Usually the graduates who are best prepared for practice are those who chose to expose themselves to some practice before graduating. Also, get rid of the jury system, it does not instruct.
This was a great conference that brought a glimmer of hope for our industry in bad economic times. It is worth toughing it out, because there is hope that there are better ways of working and living.
There is excitement over Integrated Practice and Integrated Project Delivery, that there might be a diminishing of skepticism, mistrust and self-interest. The paradigm shift will be to people doing what's best for the projects and not just for themselves. Could it be that the Age of Aquarius has arrived?
I am encouraged to hear about tools that were being dreamed of a short time ago are being developed and actually utilized. With tools that help to analyze impacts and results of alternative designs and concepts, there is the promise of better solutions for clients and a better built environment for everyone.
A lot was said about knowledge management, and the distinction between knowledge and information. Those types of discussions help to get the wheels turning about what is really valuable in our firms and our lives.
You gotta love good collaboration. It's always better to have a star team than a star player. Notice should be given to bad collaborators.
There were excellent thoughts on changes that could be made to the architectural education system. I am a proponent of requiring internships and practical experience. For my entire career, the view I have taken of architecture school was that it provided a degree that qualifies one to get their "foot in the door" so they can start their real education in practice. Usually the graduates who are best prepared for practice are those who chose to expose themselves to some practice before graduating. Also, get rid of the jury system, it does not instruct.
This was a great conference that brought a glimmer of hope for our industry in bad economic times. It is worth toughing it out, because there is hope that there are better ways of working and living.
Comment
About
© 2009 Created by Katherine Gupman on Ning. Create a Ning Network!
You need to be a member of Changing Times - Time for Change to add comments!
Join this Ning Network