How to Communicate Effectively with Remote Architects

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Remote Architects

Are you one of those innovative architecture or design firms that trusted successful remote teams? It is not always easy, but the challenge is 100% rewarding. Today we’re going to tackle a trend that’s changing the architectural landscape as we know it: outsourcing remote architects. Actually, answering this question: What is a Remote Architect? 

Outsourcing remote services has emerged as a game-changing strategy, offering diverse firms numerous advantages, including reduced costs, enhanced productivity, and access to a huge global talent pool. Based on this dynamic, here at Better Pros we try all our efforts to select the 3% top professionals and connect them to the best firms in the US. You may ask yourself, can foreign architects work in the US? The answer is definitely YES.

Remote work has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it is especially common in the architecture industry. While there are many benefits to remote work, such as flexibility and increased productivity, it can also be challenging to communicate effectively with team members who are not in the same physical space.

This article will provide some effective communication tips, tricks, methods, and best practices for remote teams, especially remote architects. We will also discuss some tips and best practices for building trust among remote teams, and how BetterPros can help firms accomplish this.

Setting up a remote architecture office

Setting up a remote architecture office

When you think of an architect you get to imagine them working in the construction or the physical building. Right? The architectural industry had to adapt to the changes that the COVID-19 pandemic brought, but actually, some architecture firms have been working remotely for the last twenty years. 

Under the latest urgency for new technological innovations that could supply multiple needs, applications and software were rapidly launched enabling architects to work from remote locations. The collaborative remote efforts in architecture, engineering, and construction can lead to project success if we ensure effective communication in every phase of the plan. 

Here is a breakdown table of all the tasks that can be performed remotely:

TasksCan the task be
done remotely?		Tools to use
Conceptual designYesCAD software, 3D modeling software, rendering software, digital whiteboards
Site Analysis and PlanningYesGeographic Information Systems (GIS) software, surveying software, remote sensing software
Building Codes and
Regulations		YesBuilding code databases, legal research software, regulatory software
Technical Drawings
and Documentation		YesCAD software, drafting software, project
Project ManagementYesProject management software, communication tools, collaboration tools
Collaboration and
Coordination		YesProject management software, communication tools, collaboration tools
Client CommunicationYesVideo conferencing software, document sharing software, project management software
Material Selection
and Specifications		YesOnline material databases, online, product catalogs
Design Reviews
and Iterations		YesConstruction management/administration software, remote monitoring tools, drones
Construction AdministrationYes (several tasks)Construction management/administration software, remote monitoring tools, drones
(Remote Collaboration in Architecture: Can Architects Works from Home, graphic; Zipboard)

Lots of studies have shown that remote workers are more productive than their office-bound counterparts. This is likely due to a number of factors, including increased flexibility, reduced distractions, and a better work-life balance.
In addition to being more productive, remote workers are also more satisfied with their jobs. This is because they have more autonomy and control over their work environment.

As a result of these benefits, remote work is becoming increasingly popular. In fact, a recent investigation found that 35% of employees would change jobs for the opportunity to work remotely full-time.

work remotely full-time

If you want to attract and retain the best talent, you need to offer remote work options.

So, once you have the remote team, you have to ensure the proper resources and effective system. Here are some tips for effective communication: 

  • Following the table and its tools, the first tip would be to select the best tools that are appropriate for your particular and unique team. There are a variety of communication tools available for remote teams, such as video conferencing platforms, instant messaging apps, and project management software that coordinates, organizes, and increases communicational skills and process flow.
  • Be prepared for new members. The onboarding process tends to be an intense and demanding procedure. Try to focus on the tools and company information that can help you build a clear, organized, and supportive plan of onboarding for the new members. Doing daily check-ins is a great way to ensure the process is being effective. 
  • Be clear and concise. Avoid using jargon or technical language that your team members may not understand. 
  • Be proactive. Do not wait for your team members to come to you with questions or concerns. Be proactive and communicate with them regularly, even if it’s just to check in and see how they’re doing. There is a big difference between hearing and listening, and the more we listen, the more powerful we become to think of resources and solutions out of the box. 
  • Be responsive and empathetic. Remote teams that care about both verbal and written communication are the most effective and successful ones. Why? There are messages that can easily be misunderstood, especially the written ones. Trying to see the whole scenery, tone, and diverse perspectives can elevate empathy and understanding between colleagues and teams. 

Tips for Building Trust on Remote Teams:

  • Get to know each other. Participating in team-building activities, or simply chatting about non-work-related topics.
  • Be honest and transparent with your team members about everything from your workload to your goals in order to build trust. 
  • Be reliable. Do what you say you’re going to do and meet your deadlines. 
  • Be supportive. Show you care about their success and you are a team player.
Remote Architects

How BetterPros helps firms build trust among remote teams

Better Pros can help you with every part of the production ecosystem. You can source drafting services, part/full-time staff architects, all the way up to project managers, and team leaders. Whatever you need, we can help make it happen.

  • Design Development (DDS)
  • Construction Development (CDS)
  • Scan to BIM
  • Revit architect
  • CDS for submittals
  • Visualization Designer
  • US-code architects
  • Isometrics from models for presentations
  • CAD conversions support
  • As built conversion from scanning or measurement
  • Client presentations
  • Project management
  • Detailing for CDS
  • Schematic Design (SDS)
  • Models
  • Plank corrections from City Hall
  • Render Architect
build remote teams

BetterPros is a company that helps firms build trust among remote teams, providing the following features:

  • Personality assessments. BetterPros uses personality assessments to help team members understand each other’s communication styles and preferences, improving communication and reducing conflict.
  • Team-building activities. BetterPros provides a variety of team-building activities that can help remote teams bond and build trust.
  • 360-degree feedback. BetterPros provides a 360-degree feedback tool that allows team members to give and receive feedback from each other anonymously, improving communication and performance.

If information is power, then communication is a key asset to succeed in the remotely globally connected world. Now that you have the tips, what is your next step? 

Get started today!