When defining the basic services of an architect, we often look at the phases of a project. Our industry generally accepts that there are 5 phases to an architectural project: Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction Documents, Bid or Negotiation, Construction Phase. The two longest phases in the process of moving through an architectural project tend to be the Construction Documents phase and the Construction Phase. A lot of attention is given to the first three phases of the project: schematic design, design development, & construction documents. The role of the architect is most clearly defined in these three phases. However, there is still a lot of work to be done. Course expires: 11/01/2024

Building codes can appear complex, opaque, and overwhelming, changing often over time and differing across the country. But what if we could adjust our perspective in a way that would allow us to view building codes through a different lens? Emerge by AIAU has brought together several thought leaders on building codes in architectural practice to provide that lens. Building codes are essential to the architect's commitment to the public’s health, safety, and welfare. In this course you will learn how building codes have evolved over time and how they impact the profession today. As emerging professionals, you should understand the power of building codes as problem-solving tools, and how your career can benefit from greater understanding and appreciation for the influence of codes on design leading to alternative practice models and career paths you might not have considered. The course consists of four segments covering: The history of building codes The impact of codes on modern architectural practice Design and building Career paths for licensed professionals​​ With support from:       This course expires 11/1/2024.

Accessible design is inherently challenging because it’s not a "settled science." Standards are constantly evolving—sometimes even in conflict with one another. This course will cut through the confusion. Our discussion/exploration will: Review compliance missteps and achievements in real-world scenarios Identify phases of the design process where various concerns are best addressed Help you create a clear plan for accessibility success Address questions, comments, and concerns from members like you Hear from accessibility experts and learn from the experiences of your peers in this clarifying course. Course expires on 4/19/2026.

A disruptive innovation helps create a new market and value network. In this course, three professionals will demonstrate how firms can utilize these innovations to expand into more sustainable and resilient business models beyond traditional architecture. Learn how to: Utilize tools to re-conceptualize your firm's expanded services offerings Determine how expanded services integrate with your current business models Develop strategies for marketing expanded services to new and existing architectural clients Consider how expanded services augment opportunities for traditional architectural services offerings Course expires on 1/2/2026.

To get your projects right the first time, design and accessibility should go hand-in-hand. In this 3 part course, you'll learn the best practices for accessibility covering emerging trends, everyday mistakes made by contractors and architects and the best way to prepare drawings to get it right the first time. Don't let ADA compliance issues set you back and cost you money! Find out what it takes to avoid common mistakes and design for ADA compliance to the letter of the law. In Part 2, go in depth on compliance issues regarding accessible routes, ramps, parking spaces, protruding objects, doors and clear floor space, controls, and counters. Typical design issues will be highlighted regarding convenience stores, gas stations, and other retail outlets as well as specific cases involving owner decisions which negate ADA compliance. Course expires 5/22/2025

This course explores concepts related to the finances in running an architecture firm and risk management. Large firms, small firms as well as sole practitioners need financial plans and risk management plans to sustain their practices, relationships and livelihood. Risk management should be embedded into the DNA of any firm or project. Learn high level ideas related to capitalization and investing and how you can apply them using the ABC’s of finance (Agreements, Budgets & Billing, and Collections) as well as key principles and considerations in managing risk at both the firm and project levels. Course expires 05/30/2025

The Economics in Architecture series introduces real-world economics that pertain to the architecture and construction industries. The videos explore business cycles and trends, the Architecture Billings Index, and the architectural workforce. Follow along as the American Institute of Architects’ chief economist, Kermit Baker, illustrates how economic concepts relate to firm practice in the architecture industry. Course expires: 11/01/2024 

The Ethics in Architecture series presents key concepts in ethics philosophy and outlines the importance of ethical decision making in architectural practice. In the series, experts detail the differences between laws and ethical codes and discuss how personal and professional ethical codes are developed. The course covers ethical best practices for completing architectural projects and managing a firm. Course expires: 11/01/2024

This course instructs architects and other design professionals about principles of intellectual property law as they relate to the creation, reproduction and use of original drawings, specifications and other documents. It is based on the premise that every design professional should have a solid working knowledge of intellectual property law, particularly copyright law, as it affects their work products and their use of other people’s work products. The issues have to do with compensation, professional credit and professional liability and are very important to the business of architecture. Course expires 4/19/2025

Within the context of business models, what are the characteristics that would make someone a successful entrepreneur? What are the obstacles for architects to break out of our traditional model? Economics plays a central role in our ability to expand services or take our practice in new directions.  Our expert panel, moderated by AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker, considers ways in which architects can create new sources of revenue by expanding their practices in different ways and embracing new models for doing business.  Questions explored include how architects are uniquely suited to development, key measures for exploring development opportunities, and factors influencing the decision process around undertaking a new business venture.   This cutting-edge discussion will inspire and enlighten you. This course expires on 4/20/2026.