Bending the role of the Architect The role bending Architect is one that responds to the ongoing market developments by anticipating or accepting changes in their professional roles, in relation to client requirements. (Bos-de Vos, M. et al, 2018).
What is more interesting, however, is the investment in specific expertise. More specifically, that of off-site construction and DfMA (Design for Manufacture and Assembly).
The decision to adapt and manipulate your professional skillset, as the role bending Architect, is typically defined by two options in order to better meet client demand, injecting value back into your role. These are as follows:
“Overhead. Design contingencies. Risk. Change orders. It’s time for a new vocabulary when we talk about construction projects – early, fast, perfect fit, as-planned” (Autodesk, 2020)
In order to maintain the client-Architect relationship you engage with a DfMA approach to design for the next project, as specified by the client, in order to provide an overall time and cost reduction for the project, as shown in the diagram shown below [Fig.15]
Reframing activities Investing in specific expertise “By reframing their activities in the project, role bending architects aim to serve the client and the project in the best way possible” (Bos-de Vos, M et al, 2018). Thus, meaning their day to day tasks will shift and change from project to project. If, for example, a specific project may need extra help and guidance throughout the planning application process, then the architect would bend its role to suit such activity. This approach applies to most project tasks such as consultancy work or BIM management.
Traditional Construction Feasibility
Funding
Design & Engineering
Site Preparation
Constructiont
Fit-out & Finishingt
Testing & Commissioning
Design for Manufacture and Assembly Feasibility
Funding
Design & Engineering
Time Saved
Site Preparation Manufacture Assembly Fit-out & Finish Testing & Commissioning Time
[Fig.15] Impact of DfMA on design and construction programme
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