Introduction

As a registered architect working for an architectural firm, my perspective on this class, as it has been for the entire graduate program curriculum, is different from most graduate students. . Although designed for students who intend to work for a construction company, ninety percent of what is taught can be applied to an architectural firm as well. The other ten percent at least gives a better understanding of where the contractor is coming from, which can help the architect in his dealings with him.

My level of responsibility where I work has grown to the point where I will soon be involved in management decisions that have an impact on the running of the company. As a result I have chosen the three class subjects that will best assist me in these decisions: Strategic Planning, Employee Recruitment and Retention, and Financial Issues in Construction. Without a plan of action for a company, it is easy to lose sight of the big picture due to all your time being spent on the day-to-day items. With both construction and architecture being very labor intensive, employee recruitment is critical to the company’s success, especially in today’s tight job market. An understanding of the financial aspects of running a business is key to its success as well.

[ Up ] [ Analysis ] [ Interview ] [ Reference ] [ Action Plan ] [ Conclusion ]