Management of architects within architectural businesses

Thompson, RF

Abstract

The management of architects within architectural
businesses has been identified as an issue influencing
the future behaviour of architectural practices. This
work goes on to develop and apply a qualitative model
(based on systems theory) which enables deeper research
into architects' businesses. The modelling of goals at
strategic, management and individual levels in the firm
are introduced into a Case Study Series. The results are
analysed and presented in the form of a social
efficiency map.
The thesis explores the modelling of multiple goal-
seeking behaviour within firms. The work justifies
behaviour at individual level using a fulfilment model
(explaining personality as based on a single force
toward growth and actualisation). Existing models of
business behaviour are used to explain business
behaviour at management and strategic levels in the
firm.
A rigorous selection of firms included in the series of
Case Studies is undertaken. This enables a process of
contrast comparison and replication. Initially this
work builds on research by the RIBA (undertaken in 1993)
and the RIBA's findings from their Case Studies of
traditional, muitidisciplinary, named, and commercial
architectural business. This is the basis for the
propositions examined in this research. The research
concludes by comparing the results of the Social
Efficiency Map by triangulation with questionnaires and
a technique of participant as observer (using an
vnopportunistic method of sampling) to strengthen the
findings.
The model proves effective in capturing the 'world view 1
of architects, based on propositions developed from the
RIBA study and those emerging from the Case Studies
Series. The implications are applied in the wider sense
of the construction industry entire. The systems theory
model is extended to facilitate discussion.
Recommendations are made regarding the wider problem of
'perceptions' by firms in the construction industry and
the permeability of these firms towards change
introduced into this wider environment described.

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Oct 3, 2012
• Award Date: Jan 1, 2002