AIA Releases Architect’s Guide to Business Continuity

WASHINGTON (April 14, 2020)—In an effort to assist architecture firms with navigating adverse business conditions, the American Institute of Architects (AIA) is releasing a new resource: Architect’s Guide to Business Continuity.

“Firms across the country are facing pressures from all sides—from transitioning offices to teleworking models, to work stoppages, to repositioning their businesses to adapt to changing client needs,” said AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Robert Ivy, FAIA. “This guide is meant to help firms be nimble during any kind of disruption, whether environmental or manmade. It also should support them in making informed decisions during economic uncertainties so they can be best poised to address the future.”

The guide provides firm leaders with insights into managing staff, premises, technology, information, supply chains, stakeholders and reputation, so a firm can continue to provide services, generate revenue and reduce the consequences of business interruption.

Additionally, it provides insights on business aspects unique to building industry professions to help firms be aware of potential vulnerabilities to their business and provides considerations for expanding resilient design services. It also builds on best practices and incorporates lessons learned from firms adversely impacted during previous events. 

A March AIA survey found that 48% of firms surveyed had all, or almost all, of their staff now working remotely, while 31 percent reported that some of their staff are working remotely. Few firms reported a major impact to their staff due to family or personal reasons, but 15% of firms said that at least some of their staff are currently unable to work at all.