Team, Outsourcing & Collaboration Episodes

Avoiding Costly Miscommunication in Architecture: Clearer Client Communication with Usman Yaqub Jon Clayton hosts Architecture Business Club with guest Usman Yaqub, president of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists and director at Studio Yaqub Architecture, to discuss how miscommunication and technical jargon damage projects and client relationships. Usman explains that clients, contractors, planners, engineers, and consultants view the same project through different lenses—...

Jon welcomes internationally renowned architect Kevin Kennon, the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, to discuss his journey and innovative approach to sustainable design. Kevin shares his experiences, including his involvement in the World Trade Center design competition, and the concept of distributed practice. He explains how this model can help studios access the best talent while remaining competitive and nimble. Kevin also touches on the advantages of working with remote teams, the importa...

Jon discusses the challenges of building an architecture business as a sole practitioner and highlights the importance of community support. He introduces the Architecture Business Club community, sharing its benefits, member testimonials, and resources available. The episode provides insights into how the community can address issues like loneliness, lack of experience, and business decision-making by offering a supportive network of like-minded professionals. Jon also shares information on how...

Have you had bad experiences outsourcing your architectural drafting work? Don't give up yet! In this episode Jon talks to Derek Timms about avoiding common outsourcing mistakes and finding the right partner. Derek, a chartered architect with 25 years of experience, shares tips on building long-term, trusted partnerships and the benefits of early planning. Derek also talks about his role as a school governor and the importance of communication and setting clear expectations. If you're a small pr...

Jon talks to Prachi Rampuria, co-founder of Eco Responsive Environments, about how collaboration can change small architecture practices and help solve big problems like climate change. Prachi discusses the benefits of working together and shares real-life examples from her projects. They also talk about the challenges of professional silos and how to overcome them. Learn tips on communication, maintaining relationships, and the importance of listening. Discover how teamwork can lead to innovati...

Jon speaks with Aya Schlachter, CEO and founder of MGS Global Group. Aya shares insights on how architects can use outsourcing to enhance productivity, increase firm capacity, and improve their bottom line. The conversation covers key benefits such as flexibility, access to a wider talent pool, and strategic growth. Aya also debunks common myths about outsourcing, discusses best practices for working with outsourcing partners, and offers philosophical advice on staying open to new opportunities....

This episode features Aylin Round, founder of Arch Jobs. Aylin and Jon discuss the essential aspects of writing effective job ads to attract the best candidates for architecture practices. The conversation covers the differences between a job ad and a job description, the importance of clearly stating the role, benefits, and salary, and tips on advertising job vacancies effectively. Aylin emphasises the value of transparency, offering potential hires clear insights into job expectations and comp...

Jon interviews entrepreneur Chris Ducker about the power of mastermind groups and how they can bolster your business. They discuss the two different types of masterminds; peer-led and leader-led, and the benefits and misconceptions about both. Chris shares his experiences, highlighting the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people and self-education. He emphasises the vital role of the leader in leader-led masterminds. Chris also shares a bit about his background, including his lo...

Jon talks to Stephen Drew, the founder of Architecture Social and Interior Design Social, about the challenges of finding, hiring, and retaining great architectural staff. Stephen enlightens listeners about the importance of creating engaging job adverts that go beyond listing required skills, and instead paint a vibrant picture of the company culture. He advises businesses to be agile, and transparent about their financial situation, and to constantly engage with employees about their professio...

In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon Clayton talks with Linden Dover, co-founder and COO of Weaver, an online platform that assists architects and design professionals in finding, vetting, and hiring building contractors. Linden shares the rigorous three-step approach adopted by Weaver to vet contractors, emphasizing the importance of continual assessment. He also discusses his past experiences, specifically a 2016 instance regarding a rogue contractor that eventua...