Date: May 10th, 2024

Location: WSP SF, 425 Market Street, San Francisco

Led by: Agustin I. Avalos, Intl. Assoc. AIA, and Clayton Cravea, AIA, NCARB

2024 Executive Committee: Chair: Madhubala Ayyamperumal, Assoc. AIA

Graphics Advisor: Sreedevi Krishnan, Assoc. AIA

Session Sponsors: WSP, Anderson Brule Architects, BOLDT, IOA Insurance Services, AIA Silicon Valley

Overview

AIA Silicon Valley’s CKLDP honed essential skills for emerging architects at its May 10th session in San Francisco, hosted by WSP. The program tackled negotiation strategies, conflict resolution, and avoiding contractual pitfalls.

The session kicked off with a lecture on risk management and client expectations to minimize litigation risks for architects and their firms. Next, the scholars received a practical talk on navigating conflicts with effective strategies. This was followed by a panel discussion featuring an architect, engineer, insurance broker, and contractor, who shared their diverse perspectives on contractual matters and negotiation. The scholars then participated in a group activity to practice real-world negotiation tactics and analyze the results. Finally, the session concluded with a talk on the Integrated Lean Project Delivery (ILPD) method, providing broader industry knowledge.

Activity 1: Lecture

Risk Management

Reno Caldwell, Insurance Agent, VP, IOA Insurance Services

The first lecture went beyond the basics of insurance to focus specifically on the needs of architectural firms. It explored various coverage options, with a deep dive into professional liability insurance. The scholars gained insights on how to draft contracts that adhere to professional standards of care, minimizing the risk of future claims.

Activity 2: Lecture

Conflict Resolution

Lee Salin, FAIA, Principal, Anderson Brulé Architects, Inc.

The second lecture dived into the art of conflict resolution, a crucial skill for architects. Just like design projects, resolving conflict requires creativity and a nuanced approach. Lee explored the common sources of conflict in architectural projects, followed by a breakdown of five key conflict resolution strategies with their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, the session provided a step-by-step guide to navigating the resolution process, emphasizing the importance of a problem-solving mindset.

Activity 3: Roundtable Discussion

“Built to Agree”

Panelists: Reno Caldwell, Lee Salin, Sarah Kuchera, William A. Lichtig

The third activity transitioned into a lively roundtable discussion. A distinguished panel featuring an architect, engineer, insurance broker, and contractor, led the group discussion. This diverse group offered their unique viewpoints on navigating contractual issues and negotiation strategies. The scholars also had the opportunity to engage with the panel by asking questions and gaining real-world insights.

Activity 4: Group Activity

Piece Negotiations

Sarah Kuchera, PE, LEED AP, Senior Vice President, WSP

The activity started with a refresher on the 5 negotiation strategies. Next, the scholars learned how to adapt their approach based on the situation, maximizing the negotiation power. To put their skills to the test, they participated in a unique challenge: negotiating with other teams to complete a jigsaw puzzle with missing pieces. This hands-on experience allowed them to apply the newfound knowledge in a competitive setting.

Activity 5: Lecture

Build Boldly

William A. Lichtig, CIO, Executive Vice President, The Boldt Company

The lecture exposed the construction industry’s woes – wasted time, inefficient drawings, and siloed communication – using data and vivid examples. It then presented a solution: Integrated Project Delivery (IPD). This innovative method fosters collaboration between all stakeholders, from clients, architects, to contractors, towards a shared goal. It also used real-world success stories to showcase IPD’s power in overcoming inefficiencies and driving positive change in construction.