3 Causes of Friction Among Architects, Engineers and Field Workers – and How to Fix It

In the construction world, success is built on the collaboration between many parties, but architects, engineers and field workers are the key groups, in my experience. Each group plays an important role, yet they all face unique challenges that can be misunderstood, and if left unchecked, always cause friction.?

For instance, on a previous job I managed, I realized that what was designed on paper would not work in the field. And that is neither the fault of the architect, nor the fault of the field manager. It was simply a disconnect between the day-to-day responsibilities each party faces.

Here are the areas architects, engineers and field works can collectively work on that will help to reduce this friction. ?

#1 Understanding Your Role and Theirs ?

Having a clear understanding of each group's role is the number one way we can reduce friction. To break it down:

• Architect - Focuses on design, vision, aesthetics, and user experience.?
• Engineers- Concentrates on feasibility, structure, and safety.?
• Field Workers- Executes the hands-on work of bringing designs to life.?

A deeper understanding of each other's roles creates stronger teams and improves the overall project outcome.

#2 Overcoming Challenges and Tensions Respectfully

While architects are visionaries, engineers ensure the safety and practicality of designs. Meanwhile, field workers are tasked with transforming those plans into reality. But, when these roles don’t align properly, challenges arise. (Nobody likes a Change Order, am I right?). ?

#3 Collaborating and Communicating Frequently ?

An architect’s vision needs to be accurately conveyed to engineers and field workers, while engineers must ensure that designs can be practically executed in the field. Despite the differences in focus and approach, effective collaboration between architects, engineers, and field workers leads to better outcomes—whether it’s improving design quality, ensuring safety, or staying on schedule.?

How to Fix it ?

In a world where construction complexity is on the rise, understanding and respect between architects, engineers, and field workers will be the foundation of every successful project. By working together to better understand each group’s role, respectfully overcoming the inevitable challenges that arise, and communicating more often, we can get jobs done faster, safer and more cost efficiently. ?

Architects visiting job sites, engineers understanding design nuances, and field workers having a say in the planning phase can significantly bridge this gap.

True success comes when the field workers, architects, and engineers unite around the project’s final goal—not just their individual roles.?