NCEF Resource List: Selecting School Design Professionals
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SELECTING SCHOOL DESIGN PROFESSIONALS

Information on hiring, contracting, and working with design professionals on school facility projects, including architects, landscape architects, and educational facilities planners.


References to Books and Other Media

How Do I Select an IAQ Consultant?
(State of California Indoor Air Quality Program, Richmond , 2009)
Briefly describes desirable qualifications for an indoor air quality consultant. These include experience, assessing a proposal, building knowledge, and reputation. 1p.

Planning Educational Facilities: What Educators Need to Know.
Earthman, Glen
(Rowman & Littlefied, Lanham, MD , 2009)
Provides a detailed discussion of the processes involved in planning a school building, from a discussion on how to organize the local staff to the final evaluation of the building. Individual chapters address planning, educational program development, evaluation of existing facilities, enrollment projection, financial planning, development of the capital improvement program, development of educational specifications, site selection and acquisition, federal regulations, architect selection and employment, project management, commissioning, post-occupancy evaluation, technology integration, and green schools. 332p.

Referral List of Architects with Child Care Facilities Development Experience in California.
(Building Child Care Project, CA, Sep 2008)
The list is divided into three regions: Northern California, Central California, and Southern California, and by county within each region. Architects generally will work outside their county, and many work on projects statewide. 37p.

Request for Designer Services (RFS).
(Massachusetts School Building Authority, Boston , Jul 09, 2008)
Invites submissions from design professionals for services designing a model high school that might be adapted and re-used by other districts. The program seeks to pre-qualify the designer of each selected model school. The Massachusetts School Building Authority, in collaboration with school districts participating in the pilot program, would select one of the pre-qualified model schools and its designer through a separate, competitive process and the school district would enter into a contract with the selected designer. The designer of the selected model school would adapt the design to a suitable site within the school district and tailor the design to the required design enrollment and programmatic needs of the district. The goal is to minimize redesign of the selected model school and maximize the value of an existing proven design. 42p.

Construction and Modernization: Information to Assist School Districts in Addressing Construction and Modernization Needs. Adobe PDF
(San Mateo County Office of Education, California , 2008)
Advises local school districts on how to manage construction projects. Topics covered include district leadership and staffing, procedures for selecting professional design consultants and firms, contracts, master planning, and project delivery programs. 17p.

Building Schools for the Future: The Role of a Design Champion. Adobe PDF
(Commission on Architecture and the Built Environment, London, United Kingdom , 2007)
Outlines the qualities and duties of a person designated in a school building project to lead and coordinate efforts toward good design. A step by-step response guide for key points in the building process is included. 6p.

Using Landscape Architects for Your Facility.
Jacobson, Susan
(SchoolFacilities.com, Orange, CA , Mar 07, 2006)
Discusses the benefits of hiring professional landscape architects for school facilities. 1p.

Consumer’s Guide to Hiring an Architect. Adobe PDF
(California Architects Board, Feb 2006)
This publication describes what kind of projects require a licensed architect, finding and selecting an architect, and items to be included in a contract between a client and an architect. 21p.

Selection Criteria of the Building Systems Functional Performance Assurance Engineer.
(Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville, FL , Jan 2006)
Presents the Duval County Public Schools' selection criteria for the building systems functional performance assurance engineer, including types of selection, standard qualifying data and forms, and specific screening and selection procedures. 26p.

CEFPI Consultants Directory.
(Council of Educational Facility Planners, International, Scottsdale, AZ , 2006)
This directory serves as a resource to school districts, colleges and universities, and others who seek professional assistance in some phase of educational facility work. The directory includes a list of firms by region and specialization,and an alphabetical listing of each firm including a personal statement reflecting the firms philosophy, experience, and approach to educational facility projects, and a description of their areas of specialization. An index of company names is included.

Designing a Childcare Center: How to Choose an Architect.
(Spaces for Children, Fairfax, CA , 2006)
Advises on selection of an architect for early childhood facilities, describing the sensitivities required when designing for small bodies in an educational environment, ways to collect referrals and conduct interviews, and how payment might be arranged. Ten typical steps in the design process are described, and the respective roles of client and architect. 7p.

Building Your Dream School: Some Thoughts to Consider.
Slone, Robert
(Robert S. Slone, Sr., Mason, Ohio , 2006)
Presents a reader-friendly account of the school design process, with guidance on defining a community's "dream school," building support for its funding, converting dreams into an actual design, managing construction, and celebrating the building opening. Includes tips on guiding participants' efforts, selecting consultants, and making key design decisions. 40p.
TO ORDER: Robert S. Slone; Voorhis, Slone, Welsh, Crossland-Architects, Inc., 414 Reading Road, Mason, OH, 45040; e-mail: bob@vswc.com

Building Schools for the Future: the Client Design Advisor. Adobe PDF
(Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment and the Royal Institute of British Architects, London. , Oct 2005)
This publication is aimed at local education authorities and schools in England. It explains the requirement for, role, and appointment of experienced architects as client design advisors within the Building Schools for the Future programme, which will transform every secondary school in England over the next 10-15 years. 6p.

Selection Criteria of the Architect/Engineer.
(Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville, FL , Jun 2005)
Presents the Duval County Public Schools' architect/engineer selection criteria, including types of selection, qualifying data and forms, and step-by-step specific selection procedures. 25p.

Selection of the Construction Management Firm: Negotiated Fee-guaranteed Maximum Price.
(Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville, FL , Jun 2005)
Presents the Duval County Public Schools construction management firm selection criteria, detailing the steps in the selection process, including required forms and submittals. 40p.

Selection of the District-Wide Planner Consultant.
(Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville, FL , Jun 2005)
Presents the Duval County Public Schools' planner consultant selection criteria, including standard qualifying data and forms, as well as specific screening and selection procedures. 17p.

The Non-Architect's Guide to Major Capital Projects: Planning, Designing, and Delivering New Buildings.
Waite, Phillip
(Society for College and University Planning, Ann Arbor, MI , 2005)
Introduces the steps and sequence of planning, designing, and delivering a capital project. The six stages of the project delivery process (planning or pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, construction administration, and occupancy) are covered in order, with emphasis on the pre-design phase, where non-architects are the most involved. A glossary is included, as are appendices which explain how to interpret architectural drawings, suggest further reading, and categorize design services. Includes 30 references. 128p.
TO ORDER: http://www.scup.org/page/pubs/books

Selection of the Design Build Firm on the Basis of Qualifications.
(Duval County Public Schools, Jacksonville, FL , Apr 2004)
Presents the Duval County Public Schools' design/build firm selection criteria, including qualifying data and forms, and step-by-step specific selection procedures. 15p.

School Construction Handbook.
(Pennsylvania School Boards Association, Mechanicsburg , 2004)
Advises school board members on a variety of school condition and construction issues, including the impact of facilities on student achievement, how to get started with capital improvements, new construction versus renovation, project management, selecting design professionals, key components of school design, "green" construction, financing, and typical legal problems of school construction. 186p.
TO ORDER: http://www.psba.org/bookstore/publicationcategory.asp?cid=36

Building & Renovating Schools: Design, Construction Management, Cost Control.
Macaluso, Joseph; Lewek, David; Murphy, Brian
(R.S. Means, Kingston, MA , 2004)
Covers the building and renovating process from initial planning, needs assessment and design through move-in. The “Planning and Design” section features guidelines for developing planning documents and selection of the design team, green design standards and technologies, integrating computer and building automation technology, security equipment and design approaches and cost issues, and the special design considerations of specialty spaces. “The Construction Process” section covers estimating and monitoring project costs, the role of a project manager and project team, and construction contracts and schedules. Also included are case studies of recently completed school projects, square foot cost models for elementary, middle, and high school facilities with costs for individual building components such as classrooms, auditoriums, labs, administration areas, gyms, libraries, and swimming pools. 412p.
TO ORDER: Reed Construction Data, 63 Smiths Lane, Kingston, MA 02364-0800, Tel: 781-422-5000
http://rsmeans.com

Drafting the Right Architect.
Perez, Jennifer
(Schoolfacilities.com, Orange, CA , 2004)
Discusses steps to take and the qualities to look for in a school architect, emphasizing the choice of well-informed, cooperative firm that shares the community's vision, along with a thorough check of credentials and references with other school systems and contractors. 2p.

Ten Ways to Help Avoid Legal Problems in School Construction. Adobe PDF
Kelin, Howard L.
(National Clearinghouse for Educational Facilities, Washington, DC. , Sep 2003)
This publication recommends that school districts include a legal plan in every school construction project. The author discusses negotiating agreements with the project architect and construction manager early on; exercising due diligence in selecting the project team; determining proper levels of professional liability insurance; clarifying legal issues with the architect and the construction manager; predetermining methods of dispute resolution; reviewing non-technical contract provisions in bid packages; developing surety bonds for bid packages; and exercising care in handling non-responsible bidders, bid errors, and contractor disputes. The publication concludes that properly applying these measures can significantly increase the chances of completing a school construction project on time, within budget, and without litigation. 8p.

K-12 Construction/Facilities Vendors: Major Opportunities Exist for Architectural/Engineering/Construction Firms that Target Correctly. Adobe PDF
(Education Week, Editorial Projects in Education, Bethesda, MD , 2003)
Advises architecture and construction firms on how to target district administrators, understand their purchasing power, and stay abreast of industry trends. Various procurement models along with their constituencies and sequencing are described. The positive trend in school construction expenditures is anaylzed and case studies of superintendent-led construction teams are offered. 15p.

Writing the Green RFP: Sustainable Design Language for Consultant Requests.
(American Institute of Architects, Committee on the Environment, Washington, D.C. , 2003)
This is a tool for clients such as educational institutions who are writing requests for proposals or qualifications from architects and other design professionals, as well as development, construction, and construction management services. This document touches on the basic elements of an RFP for design services for a sustainable project, as well as some of the issues to be considered. It covers sustainable design basics, core elements of requests, frequently asked questions, and a list of resources. Sample requests including several educational facilities projects

From the Ground Up: Legal Issues in School Construction.
Brickman, Heather K.; Goodrich, Christine A.; Griffith, Christine W.; Kuhn, Jeffrey L.; Levi, James S.; Levin, Michael I.; Osher, Daniel A.; Segal, Su
(National School Board Association Council of School Attorneys, Alexandria, VA , Apr 2002)
This publication is intended to assist school lawyers, business officials, board members, and administrators in making sound decisions, understanding the legal implications, and securing the maximum contractual protections for the school district before a school construction project begins. The first chapter examines the necessity of investigating and evaluating potential sites for school construction to avoid unforeseen environmental liability. This is followed by chapter 2 exploring the legal ramifications of an emerging project delivery method, design-build--its advantages and disadvantages, and the legal considerations before opting for this non-traditional approach to school construction. Chapters 3, and 4 describe the agreements school districts will sign with various entities in the design and construction process. Chapter 5 deals with issues relating to architect-owner agreements and construction manager contracts review standard forms of agreement commonly proffered by these professionals and recommend changes to protect the school district's interests and concerns. Chapter 6 discusses school construction bidding issues; and finally, chapter 7 explains the provisions crucial to an effective contract between schools and general contractors. (An appendix lists other resources.) 202p.
TO ORDER: http://www.nsba.org/

Selecting Professional Services.
Day, C. William
(KBD Planning Group, Bloomington, IN, 2000)
While the cost of professional services (Educational Consultant, Construction Manager, Architect, Engineer, Financial, Legal) usually represents less than one percent of the total lifetime cost of planning, designing, constructing, maintaining and operating the facility, it is important to note that the selection process for these professionals can have a major impact on all other costs related to the project. Whether that impact represents a saving or loss for the School District can be affected by the process by which they select and contract for professional services. 4p.

Designing Better Libraries: Selecting and Working with Building Professionals
McCarthy, Richard
(Highsmith Press, Fort Atkinson, WI, 2000)
The author explains how to collaborate with an architect and covers site selection, remodeling, interior design, and accessiblity improvements. Includes recent changes in standards and procedures in the building professions, and checklists to keep projects on target. 124p.
TO ORDER: Highsmith Press, POB 800, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538

Architectural Fee Guidelines.
(Arizona School Facilities Board, Phoenix , Jan 07, 1999)
Presents the Arizona School Facilities Board's guidelines for determining a lump sum fee for architectural and engineering services. The fee is determined by the difficulty and estimated overall cost of the project. 3p.

Reinvigorating Our Schools. Adobe PDF
(American Institute of Architects, Washington, DC , 1998)
This step-by-step guide helps communities think and talk about school renewal through innovative planning and design, and high quality construction. It begins with an overview of need and available funding, then describes potential members of a school-improvement team. These include: architects, state school agents, community groups, local elected and appointed officials, bankers, engineers, developers and lawyers. How an experienced architect enhances value is described, as well as options for saving time and money on school projects. Guidelines for planning a school is set out in six discussion elements: (1) structural condition; (2) environmental quality; (3) size and capacity; (4) safety and security; (5) site location and (6) symbolic value and aesthetics. References for further information are included. Local American Institute of Architects components that can help communities in finding an experienced school architect are listed by state and city. 13p.

ABC Unified School District Request for Qualifications for Architectural Services. Adobe PDF
Cox, Joshie
(ABC Unified School District, Cerritos, CA , 1998)
This is the information packet that the ABC Unified School District uses to request a proposal for professional architectural services relating to construction of new elementary and secondary schools, new additions to existing schools, modernization/reconstruction of existing schools or to serve as a consultant to the District on selected architectural matters. 26p
Report NO: ABC-1026


Finding the Right Architect: A Primer for Educational Design.
Vickery, Robert L.
(University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson Center for Educational Design, Charlottesville, VA , 1998)
When the decision is made to renovate or build a school, often administrators wonder when to bring in an architect. This booklet offers suggestions to those involved in planning school construction efforts, in order to help them better understand the process of designing and building such facilities, particularly in regard to the role of the architect. Specific guidelines are offered for when to hire an architect, how to hire this person, the fee and the contract, what to expect, the design framework, and winding up.
TO ORDER: Thomas Jefferson Center for Educational Design, Curry School of Education, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22903-2495

Understanding the Design Process for Outdoor Play & Learning Environments
Stoecklin, Vicki L.
(White Hutchinson Leisure & Learning Group, Kansas City, MO, 1997)
This piece provides guidance to those who will be working with design professionals to create outdoor learning environments. The components of a design proposal are listed and explained and recommendations for the composition of a design team are provided. Information is intended to help site owners become better clients. 3p.

A School Administrators Guide to Selecting a Design Professional Adobe PDF
(North Carolina State Dept. of Public Education, Raleigh, NC , 1996)
Since building designers play a key role in the school construction process, it is important they be selected based on qualifications, level of service, and ability to work with education professionals. This report provides guidance to Boards of Education, Superintendents, and other school administrators in this selection process. A methodology is presented which incorporates some of the factors and qualifications that should be considered when selecting and contracting with architects and engineers. Included are the types of design contracts available and suggestions for preparing and negotiating the contract. Appendices contain sample of requests for Letters of Intent, designer selection criteria, potential contract modifications and additional design services, and the costs not part of the design contract. (Contains 9 references.) 45p.

Form of Agreement Between Client and Architect for School Building Projects. Adobe PDF
(Elk Grove Unified School District, Sacramento, CA, 1996)
This is a sample contract between a school district and an architect. It includes such basic services as schematic design, preliminary plans, final plans, modernization, consultants extra services, clients responsibilities, project costs, architect compensation, time schedule, accounting, insurance documents and arbitration. 18p

Obtaining Professional Services for Construction Projects.
(New York State Education Dept. Office of Facilities Planning, Albany, NY, 1994)
School districts must contract for various professional services to complete capital construction projects. Professional services involve architects, engineers, surveyors, and attorneys. Other services involve a clerk of the works and construction managers for various supervision activities.

A Procedural Guide for Planning an Educational Facility.
Logsdon, Gordon B.
(Doctoral Dissertation, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville , May 1993)
Provides the board of education and administrators with a single document containing information needed to implement an educational facility construction program. The objective is to provide planners with the basic principles of educational planning, to emphasize the relationship between educational facilities and the programs they must accommodate, to show the relationship of human involvement to functional planning of successful educational facilities, and to examine the broad steps necessary to plan and construct new educational facilities. Data for this guide was collected through an intensive search of literature divided into seven major categories: 1) historical background; 2) demographic projections; 3) educational planning; 4) personnel; 5) architect; 6) financing the educational facility; and 7) site selection. 185p.
Report NO: 9334083

TO ORDER: Proquest, 300 North Zeeb Road, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI, 48106-1346; Tel: 734-761-4700, Toll Free: 800-521-0600, email: info@il.proquest.com
http://disexpress.umi.com/dxweb

Selection and Compensation of Architectural Services for School Facility Construction: Guidelines for School Districts.
Madden, Marilou; Coughlin, Twyla G.
(State of Alaska , 1985)
These guidelines highlight administrative and legal aspects of Alaskan school construction projects and propose ways to address them during selection and contracting with school architects. The document emphasizes the role of the architect, then reviews activities that should precede architect selection, including determining the scope of the project and the range of services required. The guide next covers architect selection, which involves the appropriate selection process, soliciting proposals, screening applicants, and final selection. The guide advises on negotiating contracts with architects, suggesting how specific services can be identified, how fees may be charged, how expense reimbursement rates can be set, and how design cost limits can be figured given construction costs. The Guide also looks at several problematic aspects of contract development and execution including using form contracts, stipulating who the contracting agencies are to be, writing suitable indemnity and damage clauses, assessing insurance coverage, handling disputes, and providing for redesign options. 47p.

References to Journal Articles

Working with Contractors.
Matt, Chris
Maintenance Solutions; v19 n2 , p16,17 ; Feb 2011
Focuses on criteria for selecting a contractor to plan and execute equipment retrofits.

The Master Planner.
Carey, Kelley
American School Board Journal; v197 n4 , p44-48 ; Apr 2010
Advises on the use of consultants in school facilities master planning, describing several details that their reports should contain, and how comprehensible it should be to the layperson. Also included is a discussion of hiring an architect, using your own facilities director, and engaging a facilitator to coordinate the planning process.

No-Fault Construction.
Sprecher, Helen
School Business Affairs; v34 n4 , p44-46,48,50 ; Apr 2010
Advises on how to select the right contractor to build sport-specific surfaces and their accompanying amenities. Word of mouth, shopping for a contractor, asking for references, consultation with bodies governing the sport, and bid comparison are addressed.

The Pride of East 103rd Street.
LaBarre, Suzanne
Metropolis; v29 n6 , p66-74 ; Jan 2010
Profiles this private middle school in Harlem, highlighting the rebuilding of their old facility, and the architect's absolute control over the design and construction of the school.

Creative Partnerships.
Bamborough, Mary
American School and University; v81 n13 , p137-139 ; Aug 2009
Advises on selecting an interior designer for a school project. The article outlines "five C's" to consider: communication, commitment, clarity, creativity, and color.

K-12 Schools Report.
Building Design and Construction; v50 n7 , p24,25 ; Jul 2009
Briefly reviews K-12 school construction trends, then ranks the top 20 K-12 school design firms and top 20 K-12 school building contractors according to billings.

University Report.
Building Design and Construction; v50 n7 , p22,23 ; Jul 2009
Reports rising university construction spending, mostly for residence halls and infrastructure. The top 20 university design firms and top 20 university contractors, according to billings, are listed.

How to Hire a LEED Consultant.
Aye, Elaine; Sheridan, Sheila
Facility Management Journal; v19 n4 , p45-48 ; Jul-Aug 2009
Advises on engaging a LEED consultant, discussing the desirable communication skills, credentials, strategic thinking, empathies, scheduling deliverables, and compensation.

Terror in the Board Room: The Bid-Opening Process.
Shoop, James
School Business Affairs; v75 n2 , p28-30 ; Feb 2009
Advises on planning for a bid, including proper advertising that complies with the law, coordinated receipt of bids by a single entity, and an adequate facility to accommodate all those who will attend the opening. Supplies needed and coordination of the opening procedure, along with three possible serious complications with their possible resolutions are also described.

Needed: Constructive Advice.
Darden, Edwin
American School Board Journal; v195 n11 , p43,44 ; Nov 2008
Advises on scrutiny of local and state laws when embarking on school construction, and careful handling of bids, contracts, and project team selection. Basic public-private financing arrangements are cited, as are post-construction matters.
TO ORDER: American School Board Journal, 1680 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA 22314; Tel: 703-838-6722
http://www.asbj.com

Giants 300 Report: K-12 Schools Report.
Building Design and Construction; v49 n9 , p36,37 ; Jul 2008
Briefly discusses current and projected K-12 construction spending, and lists the top 20 school firms and the top 20 school contractors, based on 2007 billings.

Giants 300 Report: University Report.
Building Design and Construction; v49 n9 , p32,33 ; Jul 2008
Briefly discusses current and projected higher education construction spending, and lists the top 20 university design firms and the top 20 university contractors, based on 2007 billings.

Selecting an Architect? How About a Design Competition.
Scott, Jeffrey
School Business Affairs; v74 n6 , p34-37 ; Jun 2008
Relates one superintendent's experience hiring an architect through a design competition. The article outlines how the district determined short- and long-term objectives, created an RFP for architectural services and invited a select group of architects to submit proposals, met with the interested firms, and reviewed the proposals. Tables illustrate "must haves" and "wants" for the project.

Build It Right.
Levien, Kenneth
School Planning and Management; v47 n5 , p26,28,30 ; May 2008
Advises on assembling a school construction team, detailing the duties of a project manager, how the project manager addresses the school district's culture and financing mechanisms, and consultant roles.

Putting Together the Right Team for an Energy-Efficient School Project.
Appel, Margo
School Business Affairs; v74 n1 , p24-26 ; Jan 2008
Advises on selecting design, construction, and engineering professionals when creating a new or renovated energy-efficient school. The variety of professionals that may comprise such a team are listed and their duties defined. Questions to ask of the architect and general contractor are listed as well.

The Consultant Connection.
Sims, Joel
Schooldesigner Newsletter; , pn6 ; Dec 2007
Advises on consultants hired by architects to work on school design projects. Tips on how to ensure that the architects have hired well, questions about the consultant that the school administrators should ask of the architect, explorations of the architects and their previous relationship with the consultant, and issues of consultant compensation are addressed.

K-12 Schools Report.
Building Design and Construction; v48 n9 , p48,49 ; Jul 2007
Briefly reviews K-12 school construction trends, then ranks the top 20 K-12 school design firms and top 20 K-12 school building contractors according to their 2006 revenue.

University Report.
Building Design and Construction; v48 n9 , p50,51 ; Jul 2007
Briefly reviews higher education construction trends, then ranks the top 20 higher education design firms and top 20 K-12 higher education building contractors according to their 2006 revenue.

Big Plans on Campus.
Mays, Vernon
Architect; v96 n8 , p58-67 ; Jul 2007
Profiles four higher education campus architects, discussing the differing priorities of their master plans, capital programs, and architectural aesthetics.

The Fine Art of Choosing an Architect.
Schibsted, Evantheia
Edutopia; v3 n5 , p30-32 ; Jul-Aug 2007
Discusses the multi-faceted relationship of architect to school board, parents, teachers, and students; offers tips for selecting the right architect for a school project; and presents necessary considerations for designing a school from a students point of view.

Eight Keys to Building Long-term Architect/Client Relationships.
Roveto, Dominick; Cahalane, Neil; Shaw, Anthony
Laboratory Design; v12 n6 , p15,16,18,19 ; Jun 2007
Uses a 34-year relationship between Harvard University and the authors' firm to Illustrate eight keys to building long-term architect/client relationships: arriving at common ideals, fostering continual dialogue, building on mutual trust, demonstrating responsiveness, willingness to take on non-traditional roles, maintaining a knowledge bank, providing fresh information, and practicing constant innovation.
TO ORDER: http://www.rdmag.com/labdesignnews

Lab Design and the Expert: Experience Brings Benefits, Pitfalls.
Hanley, June
Laboratory Design; v11 n12 , p1,6-8 ; Dec 2006
Discusses the benefits that laboratory design expertise brings to a building team, but cautions also that such expertise should not merely repeat past successes that may not fit the client.

Partnering with Professionals to Control Construction Costs.
Oehler, Tim
School Business Affairs; v72 n11 , p35-38 ; Dec 2006
Describes cost-savings that can be realized by consulting with construction managers and architects, especially when engaged early in the school design process. Particular attention is given to the architect's ability to control variables and advise on space use, amenities, materials, and maintenance issues.

How to Select a Planning and Design Consultant
Kalina, Dave
Techniques: Connecting Education and Careers; v81 n8 , p44-46 ; Nov-Dec 2006
This article offer guidance for selecting and hiring an architect or planner, as well as insight regarding consultant fees and what can be expected for the money. This article is dedicated to planning--specifically, what to look for and how to find a planning professional. Furthermore, it is stated that in the qualifications-based process, planners and design professionals are evaluated based on qualifications and demonstrated ability to perform.
TO ORDER: http://www.acteonline.org

Get the Most from Your Architect.
Abramson, Paul
School Planning and Management; v45 n8 , p54 ; Aug 2006
Advises school districts on preparations that should be made before interviewing architects. A long-range plan including the numbers of students, educational program, and modes of instruction should be completed that also includes grade configurations, technology integration, and community use.

Negotiating Win-Win A/E Professional Services Agreements.
Ahoy, Christopher; Chrusciel, Donald
Facilities Manager; v22 n4 , p66-68,70 ; Jul-Aug 2006
Describes research conducted with architecture and engineering firms to determine what service these professionals considered basic, and to be provided under a typical contract, and what they considered extra, to be provided at extra cost. The goal was to determine where an institution and A/E firm might find common ground in initiating a contract. The complexities of these relationships was apparent and a basic service guide check sheet and fee-calculating chart is recommended.

Why Construction Safety Is Important.
Emmons, Jim
Facilities Manager; v22 n4 , p60-64 ; Jul-Aug 2006
Reviews the owner's role in construction safety, and advises on how the owner can work with the contractor to encourage the contractor's obligations under safety regulations. The elements of a contractor safety program that can control the owner's risks are detailed, and suggestions on how to find a contractor with a good safety culture are offered.

Architects Lead the Way in Community College Partnership Projects.
Maso, Maurizio; Jurewicz, Zofia
College Planning and Management; v9 n5 , p46,47 ; May 2006
Describes the role of architects in the growth of community colleges, through their matching through design of local "partner" needs and the institution's educational program. The skills that architects typically bring to the collaboration of industry, community, and education are described, and lessons learned by the author in recent projects are listed.

Architecture: A Process for Educational Excellence Within Budget
Hill, Franklin
SchoolFacilities.com; Jan 24, 2006
This article discusses several criterion for selecting a design team: 1. Make Learning Achievement the Criterion for Architectural Selection; 2. Use this Checklist for Future Design Team Selection; 3. Avoid “Jumping” to Design too Quickly; 4. Remodeling—Don’t Re-Guild a Dead Lily; 5. Post-Occupancy Evaluation; 6. Creativity DOES NOT have to Cost More; and 7. Staff Must Agree to Change for the BETTER (Not Just Change).

Becoming Partners.
Kennedy, Mike
American School and University; v78 n5 , p68-73 ; Jan 2006
Discusses the partnership between architects and educational administrators in terms of what architects should know about educational institutions and what administrators should know about architects.

Construction Coordination Is a Team Effort.
Midler, Scott
Learning By Design; n15 , p14-16 ; 2006
Advises on selection of architects and construction managers for school projects, as well as how to encourage teamwork and handle change orders during the project.
TO ORDER: Learning by Design; Email: lbd@strattonpublishing.com
http://www.learningbydesign.biz

Hiring a Design Professional.
Kollie, Ellen
College Planning and Management; v8 n5 , p16,18-20 ; May 2005
Presents 11 items to consider when hiring a school design firm. These considerations address the design team's experience, qualifications, and compatibility, but also address the owner's processes, pace, and budgets.

Why Hiring a Star Architect Isn't Always a Stellar Idea.
Lidsky, Arthur
Chronicle of Higher Education; , pB18,B19 ; Mar 25, 2005
Encourages higher education institutions to maintain control of their buildings and not accept dysfunctional or over budget buildings merely for the sake of having a work by a prominent architect. Cases of sucessful and unsuccessful collegiate buildings by notable architects are included.

The Non-Architects Guide to the Design Process.
Waite, Phillip
Facilities Manager; v21 n2 , p44-46 ; Mar-Apr 2005
Provides guidance on the following elements of a good RFP for design services: institutional and project background, project scope description, minimum qualifications, fee basis, project schedule, and proposal evaluation. Also included is advice on advertising the RFP, shortlisting firms for interviews, conducting the interviews, notifying and debriefing the winning and losing teams, and negotiating the contract.

Finding an Advocate in an Architect.
Young, Dennis
The School Administrator; v61 n10 , p46 ; Nov 2004
Proposes planning, design, construction, and risk management scenarios that can be presented to candidate architects in order to discern which firm will bring the most insight and problem-solving experience to a project.
TO ORDER: American Association of School Administrators, 801 N. Quincy St., Ste. 700, Arlington, VA 22203-1730; Tel: 703-875-0745; Email: magazine@aasa.org
http://www.aasa.org/SchoolAdministrator.aspx

Touching Base.
Young, Dennis
American School and University; v77 n3 , p372-373 ; Nov 2004
Describes a system of open communication and assessment which will enable the architect to know well the culture, needs, and expectations of the educational client.

Reading Between the Lines.
Young, Dennis M.
School Planning and Management; v43 n6 , p62,64-66 ; Jun 2004
Advises on architect selection for school construction, recommending consideration of the district's educational philosophy, reviews of other school districts' experiences, visitation of projects by candidate firms, and a careful "fit" between the district's and the A/E firm's respective cultures. Eight considerations for rejecting a firm are also suggested.

How These Tech Managers Learned to Work with Architects & Contractors
Zuckerman, Amy
University Business; Feb 2004
Technology managers from several universities discuss the lesson they learned that the only route to 'smart classroom' success is through partnering with design. Includes a list of 'smart' construction tips For IT and tech people.

Finding the Right Architect or Engineer.
Christenson, James E.
Facilities Manager; v19 n6 , p50-51 ; Nov-Dec 2003
Suggests criteria for selecting design professionals and emphasizes consideration of a firm's experience with the particular building type rather than their fame. The makeup and duties of an architect/engineer selection board, to be appointed at the outset, are described.

Top 25 [Design Firms] in Education.
ENR: Engineering News-Record; Jan 2003
This is a ranking of the top 25 largest U.S.-based architectural and engineering firms in the education sector. The ranking is based on supplemental market revenue data from 2001 provided by participating industry firms on ENR's Sourcebook Market Survey.

Choosing Wisely.
Hale, Olivia
American School and University; v75 n3 , p376-77 ; Nov 2002
Discusses the skills and qualifications to look for when choosing a landscape architect for educational facilities.

Drafting an Architect.
Rohwer, Ralph
School Planning and Management; v41 n6 , p47-48 ; Jun 2002
Outlines a selection process for school districts seeking to hire an architect. Discussing choosing the selectors, questions the district should ask itself, the interview, and checking references.

Educator and Architect Partnerships for Success.
Butz, James
New Directions for Teaching and Learning; n92 , p53-62 ; Winter 2002
An architect and educational facilities consultant talks about the roles of architect and user in a building process, suggesting how educators can make best use of partnerships with architects.

Hiring a Consultant.
Day, C. William
American School and University; v73 n6 , p44-45 ; Feb 2001
Provides tips for hiring a consultant for educational technology projects, developing the request for proposal for a consultant, and evaluating proposals for awarding contracts. Some questions to ask when educational leaders are looking for expert help are listed.

Job Ordering Contracting: Obtaining Construction Services Efficiently and Economically Through the JOC Delivery System.
Kashiwagi, Dean T.
Educational Facility Planner; v36 n2 , p4-10 ; 2001
Discusses what job order contracting (JOC) for facilities managers is and its advantages and disadvantages. Also discusses the Center for Job Order Contracting Excellence, the impact of the "low- bid" award process, the benefits of JOC's use of multiple on-site contractors, and utilization of performance-based procurement and performance information.

A School Briefing Primer.
Rush, Richard D.
Learning By Design; n10 , p14-16 ; 2001
Examines the use of, and procedures for, a school walkthrough with architectural candidates to help school officials in selecting a design firm that fits their particular circumstances. Included are typical questions architects ask and special situations that may signal the need for a school briefing.
TO ORDER: Learning by Design; Email: lbd@strattonpublishing.com
http://www.learningbydesign.biz

With Apologies to Maria Shriver: 10 Things You Must Know Before Starting a School Construction or Renovation Project
DiBella, Cecilia M.; Anderson, Jim
School Business Affairs; v66 n12 , p30-33 ; Dec 2000
Before undertaking a school construction or renovation project, administrators should plan carefully, collect adequate data, involve the school board, form a building committee, understand legalities, select the right architect, consult with technology director, monitor the construction site, enjoy short-lived trouble-free times; and document expenditures.

Selecting an Architect.
Carey, Kelley D.
American School Board Journal; v187 n8 , p30-32 ; Aug 2000
School districts seeking an architect should know what they want, open up the selection process, decide on the importance of prior school-design experience, require a screening procedure with a standardized questionnaire, meet the project manager, make site visits, and probe deeply before signing contracts.

Invest Now Or Pay Later.
Biehle, James T.
American School and University; v72 n8 , p46-47 ; Apr 2000
Discusses how architects and school districts can learn from the past to avoid repeating costly mistakes. Addressed are architectural fees and the importance of not severely reducing time and cost spent in design to help ensure better facility performance later. Life-cycle costs are described.

Finding the Perfect Technology Consultant.
Willard, Eric
School Planning and Management; v39 i4 , p7-9 ; Apr 2000
This recommends planning ahead for what you want the consultant to do; establishing clear goals for what you want the consultant to accomplish; review collective needs to determine gaps and duplications; find consultants to interview; evaluate the consultants; check references; and time the hiring.

Architects as Educators.
Illanes, Eduardo
American School and University; v72 n3 , p319-21 ; Nov 1999
Examines the selection process for an architectural firm in new school design and the importance of the firm including the philosophy of the school and its surrounding neighborhood into the design. An example is provided of a school design exemplifying the community vision.

Delivery Order Contracting: A Better Way To Build.
Kline, Clayton M.
Facilities Manager; v15 n5 , p19-24 ; Sep-Oct 1999
Explains what delivery order contracting (DOC) is and how it can be used to provide a cost effective, efficient, and less acrimonious environment when doing low-bid contracting. Benefits of DOC are discussed, such as compressing the acquisition time; reducing maintenance, repair, and renovation backlogs; and reducing up-front costs. Concluding comments offer tips for managing DOC successfully.

Michigan Architects Discuss School Construction
Fickes, Michael
Michigan Constructor; v5 n2 , p12-18 ; Aug 1999
Discusses how a collaborative partnership between facility designers and contractors can help solve school construction problems given the growing design complexities now being demanded. Various problematic design innovations are addressed, including the use of pods, quads, and community centers; and how these designs create opportunities for collaboration are explained with examples from Michigan school construction projects.

Making Smart Building Decisions.
Coburn, Janet
College Planning and Management; v2 n5 , p26-28 ; May 1999
Discusses how a positive partnership with the architect can help those inexperienced in building design and construction make smart building decisions. Tips cover how to prevent change orders, what red flags to look for in a building project, what the administrator should expect from the architect to make the project run smoothly, and what the architect should expect from the client.

The Right Architect for the Right Job.
Zorn, Robert L.
School Planning and Management; v39 n4 , p62, 64 ; Apr 1999
Selecting an architect for your school construction project isn't difficult. It just takes time and planning. The better job you do in the selection of an architect, the better you will like the results of your next construction project. Here's how the Poland, Ohio, School District selected an architect for its construction projects. The form it developed can help you with your qualifications-based selection process.

Performance Over Price.
Day, C. William
American School and University; v70 n12 , p134-137 ; Aug 1998
Discusses the selection process when using outside professionals for school construction projects. The drawbacks of using competitive bidding for professional services are highlighted followed by tips on using a qualifications-based selection method that include work experience evaluation and conducting interviews for professional services.

The Design Partner.
Dempsey, John G.; Wesenberg, Gretchen
Facilities Manager; v14 n2 , p25-26 ; Mar-Apr 1998
Suggests that using a single consultant instead of multiple architectural and engineering firms in renovation and construction projects will lower costs and add value for improved functionality for university programs. Details the process the University of Rochester followed in selecting, retaining, and using a consultant.

Architects: 14 Ways to Get Better Performance from Your Architect.
Haggans, Michael
School Planning and Management; v37 n3 , p24-29 ; Mar 1998
Having reasonable expectations of your architect will help prevent dissatisfaction with your next building or renovation project.

How to Work With Your Architect.
Haggans, Michael
College Planning and Management; v1 n2 , p30-35 ; Mar 1998
Offers suggestions for facility managers who work with architects. Outlines what managers should do, such as clear decision making, and what they should not do, such as promising project delivery when not having control of all the variables. Provides a list of expectations and realities when working with architects.

Your First Design Decision.
Barnard, Andrew W.
Athletic Business; v20 n8 , p49-53 ; Aug 1996
Discusses what services architects can offer to those planning to build recreation centers and advice on planning the selection process for hiring an architectural firm. Concluding comments address important steps in the interview process during the final selection phase.

Protecting Yourself from Liability: Architectural Contracts by Design.
Sargent, Nicholas
School Business Affairs; v62 n2 , p11-12 ; Feb 1996
Before selecting an architect, a school district should formulate clear expectations regarding the extent of the architect's services and responsibilities. One standard contract often proposed by architects is a document developed by the American Institute of Architects. Points out the shortcomings of this contract to a school district's interests in cost containment.

What Your Architect Should Bring to the Table.
Graves, Ben E.
American School and University; v67 , p18 ; Dec 1994
Advice from a meeting of the American Institute of Architects Committee on Architecture for Education is provided. The attributes that an ideal architectural firm should possess are organizational flexibility, self-awareness and honesty, an understanding of the client, and a team player attitude. Partnerships can be fostered through long-term commitment, trust, and shared vision.

A New Approach to Selecting Architects.
Moore, Dick
Educational Facility Planner; v27 n1 , p35-37 ; Jan-Feb 1989
An approach to selecting architects goes through filters of screening, presentations, and interviews before the final selection. Architect's hints accompany the description of each filter.

The Right Design Consultant Puts Your Building Project on Firm Ground.
Poel, Thomas J.
American School Board Journal; v173 n7 , p30,33,35 ; Jul 1986
Provides step-by-step instructions on how to choose a design consultant fordeveloping building renovation or new building plans. Includes a sample interview form and a sample group evaluation form.

Follow These Nine Steps to Select the Architectural Firm That Can Design a New School According to Your Exact Specifications.
Smith, Ellison; And Others
American School Board Journal; v171 n5 , p36-37 ; May 1984
Among the nine steps developed by the Elloree Public Schools in Orangeburg County, South Carolina, are taking a crash course in school construction, considering hiring a consultant, defining goals, developing a management plan, creating a project description, drawing up a list of prospective architects, and soliciting presentations.


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