Philowilke is dedicated to nurturing both personal and professional development. In line with this mission, our Employee Spotlight for this month shines on Bryan Waters, one of our skilled Architects. Currently, Bryan is deeply engrossed in a significant academic pursuit—a dissertation coupled with a pilot study. His research delves into the intricate interplay among architects, contractors, and owners, a synergy often referred to as the Design-Bid-Build triangle. Notably, this investigation places a spotlight on the pivotal role of contractors, who wield substantial influence over how architects are perceived by the owners. Their perspectives hold the power to shape the owner’s perception, thus underscoring the immense control they exercise over this dynamic
However, the scope of this study extends beyond the conventional boundaries of the Design-Bid-Build triangle. Another facet of the research spotlights the pivotal role of design instructors within institutions of higher education, specifically those teaching healthcare design. Although these instructors aren’t directly part of the Design-Bid-Build triangle, their profound impact on shaping the minds of future designers is undeniable. As such, the pivotal question posed by this pilot study is whether these educators are instilling the right criteria to effectively cater to the evolving needs of clients.
Intriguingly, this research journey thus embraces not only the present dynamics of architectural collaboration but also casts a forward-looking gaze toward the preparation of future architects. The symbiotic relationship between these realms underscores the comprehensive nature of Bryan Waters’ endeavor and its potential to reshape the architectural landscape.
Can you tell us about your dissertation and pilot study exploring the dynamic relationships between architects, contractors, and owners known as the Design bid Build triangle?
Sure. In my dissertation, I delve into the significance and dynamics between three key entities in the design and construction industry, namely architects, contractors, and owners, forming what is known as the traditional Design Bid Build delivery system. The study asks how these stakeholders value architects and their professional services. The primary relationship focused on in this research is between the healthcare client and the architect. Because the facilities that architects design are for the benefit of the client, understanding the client’s impressions of architects and the level of importance they place on architectural services should be of interest to designers. Another focus of the study involves the opinions of general contractors, as they have substantial influence on how architects are perceived by the owners. As producers of the final form of the architect’s design, contractors possess significant control over the perception of architects’ work, making them a crucial factor in the equation.
Additionally, my research includes the viewpoints of design instructors in higher education, particularly those teaching healthcare design. While they may not be part of the traditional design bid build triangle, these instructors have a considerable impact on shaping the future generation of architects. Consequently, the study aims to question whether they are imparting the right criteria to meet the needs of clients effectively. So, the dissertation addresses the entities within the design bid build delivery method, as well as instructors in higher education.
What were some of the challenges you faced during the study regarding whom to question and include?
One of the main challenges in this study was determining which party within healthcare systems to include. The healthcare client umbrella encompasses various roles, including patients, physicians/caregivers, administrators, and more. After consulting several resources, I determined that officers within facilities planning, and operations departments were the professionals that fielded concerns from the various interest groups within a hospital and communicates them to architects and contractors during construction. Therefore, when this dissertation references “the healthcare client” it refers to those officers as representatives of the larger healthcare facility.
What are your goals for the outcome of this research?
My goal for this study is to bridge the industry knowledge gap and provide valuable insights to architects. I hope to offer guidance on how they can adjust their approaches and methods as needed, as well as inform them about how other entities value their services. The research aims to benefit clients by highlighting the potential that architects possess, thus raising the question of the value of architectural services. Moreover, I aim to provide information for contractors on how to collaborate effectively with architects in future projects. Lastly, this research will inform academic instructors in the healthcare industry on how best to tailor their curriculum to meet the needs of clients.
What sparked your interest in undertaking this research?
My interest in this research was piqued shortly after becoming a licensed architect in 2015, as I began to assume new roles and responsibilities. Being more heavily involved in owner/architect/contractor (OAC) meetings exposed me to the competing dynamics that can ensue among the parties involved in a project. Witnessing these relationships raised questions in my mind as to how these dynamics came to be, and why they persist. As I attempted to investigate the matter, I noticed an information gap within the design and construction industry, motivating me to contribute to bridging this gap and helping the architectural community.
Were there any surprising or unexpected results that emerged from your research?
Yes, there were some surprising findings during my research. One interesting discovery found during the pilot study was that architects tend to assume that clients share their values and would thus value their services similarly. I find it intriguing to investigate the accuracy of this assumption on their part. Another unexpected challenge was the low level of participation from contractors in the data collection process compared to architects and design instructors. This required me to put in extra effort to ensure balanced participation.
How have the results from both the data and pilot study influenced your understanding of the research topic?
The results from both the data and pilot study have significantly influenced my understanding of the research topic. Interestingly, my literature review has revealed that most clients value a trusting relationship with their architect and collaborators. The importance of trust emerges as a crucial factor influencing clients’ perceptions and decisions.
How does your research differ from existing studies on this topic?
Most research on this topic has been conducted in European countries and primarily focuses on residential projects. In contrast, there has been a scarcity of resources exploring the knowledge gap in commercial and healthcare projects in the United States. This is an area that I hope to contribute to with this research.
Balancing personal commitments with the pilot study and dissertation must be challenging. How have you managed this aspect?
Indeed, it has been a challenging endeavor. To maintain balance, I try to segment my days effectively. When I leave the office and go home, I switch hats to being a dedicated father and husband. Once personal commitments settle, I shift gears to my role as an academic researcher, focusing on the dissertation. I suppose it is important to compartmentalize. That has been essential to managing my time effectively pursuing this research while fulfilling personal responsibilities. Thankfully, the pilot study is complete and is now published. So, that was an encouraging milestone. It is important to celebrate small accomplishments along the way to your ultimate goals.
Click Here! To read Bryan’s publication.