Chartered Architectural Technologists, (someone who holds the designation MCIAT or FCIAT), are qualified to offer design services and manage projects from inception to completion. They lead the technological design of a project; forming the link between concept, innovation and realisation.
They:
-
specialise in design, underpinned by building science, engineering and technology applied to architecture within projects, playing a pivotal role in project and design management;
-
design and manage all project types from small scale to large commercial, industrial, residential and public projects; they range from being sole practitioners to working in multinational and multidisciplinary practices;
-
work collaboratively with other professionals such as architects and engineers and are recognised on a par with all Chartered professionals in the built environment sector; and
-
hold a valued, respected and regulated professional qualification and protected designation, which is transferable and recognised across borders and can only be awarded by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists, whilst abiding by a set of professional ethics in the Institute’s Code of Professional Conduct.
Project inception
Chartered Architectural Technologists are recognised as being qualified to negotiate and manage the development of a construction project.
They are:
- qualified to negotiate and manage the development of a construction project, assessing the needs of clients and users and agreeing the project brief;
- recognise the significance of the design stage and how it underpins the construction project;
- evaluate and advise upon environmental and regulatory legal requirements affecting the project and obtaining initial approvals;
- produce and evaluate feasibility studies;
- evaluate resources and assess environmental impact; and
- assess and manage survey requirements and produce surveys.
Project planning
They:
- develop project briefs and design programmes;
- advise clients on methods of project procurement and forms of contract;
- manage health and safety; and
- liaise with and produce documentation for statutory approval authorities.
Design process
Chartered Architectural Technologists specialise in the application of building science and technology to architectural and construction projects. They are recognised as having specialist skills enabling them to manage the design process and use their technical knowledge and expertise to provide innovative solutions.
They:
- prepare and present design proposals using CAD techniques and traditional methods;
- lead the detailed design process and co-ordinate detailed design information;
- manage and coordinate the design team and associated professional consultants;
- develop the project design, researching problems and producing, developing and advising upon innovative solutions;
- produce, analyse and advise upon specification, materials selection and detailed design solutions in relation to performance and production criteria;
- liaise with and produce documentation for statutory approval authorities;
- produce, manage, control and integrate design and production information; and
- carry out design stage risk assessments.
Contract management
Chartered Architectural Technologists are recognised as being qualified to negotiate and manage all aspects of architectural and construction contracts, whether it is using traditional, partnering or other methods. Chartered Architectural Technologists recognise the significance of the post construction aspects of the project.
They:
- manage or co-ordinate associated professionals;
- obtain and evaluate tenders and agree contracts;
- ensure continual compliance with design, legal, statutory and professional requirements;
- programme schedules and undertake stage inspections;
- administer contracts and project certification;
- manage project handover;
- gain feedback from and de-brief client and user;
- appraise building performance in use and producing, developing and maintaining maintenance management information systems; and
- evaluate and advise upon refurbishment, repair, reuse, recycling and deconstruction of buildings.
Professional practice
Chartered Architectural Technologists are architectural professionals and may practise on their own account as a partner or director, and must adhere to a Code of Conduct.
They:
- provide professional guidance and decision making to clients, users and design/construction teams;
- weigh up issues and make balanced judgements;
- obtain and maintain adequate mandatory Professional Indemnity Insurance (PII); and
- undertake structured Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Looking for a Chartered Architectural Technologist?
Whether you need design or plans for your project, or a qualified professional to guide you, a Chartered Architectural Technologist can manage all stages from the earliest designs through to final certification, regardless of its size or value.
Click below to find a CIAT Chartered Practice near to you: