1. Create sufficient lead time for decisions
How do we anticipate decisions that need to be made so there is enough time for me to think them through and not make them at the last minute? Indicator that we don't have this right—me getting lots of phone calls at work.
2. Consider the design implications of even the smallest decisions. Example: what I thought was a fireplace "lip" was actually a fireplace "surround"—a big difference I didn't have the background to understand. Even the closet pole was partially a design decision that I mistook for a building decision. Granted, this is all due to my ignorance. Another way to look at this: you are not mere implementers of a design, but making micro-level design decisions to match an overall sensibility.
3. Develop/articulate ways to aid decision-making
What are the most effective, appropriate, quickest and inexpensive ways to test, visualize and understand the outcome of decision possibilities? Offer appropriate techniques and approaches to help clients come to a decision. One obvious technique: taping paper on the walls to see if I can live with only two smallish windows to the backyard. The answer: no.
4. Allow for flexibility in process. For example, I'd like to break the building process into steps to enable sufficient time for review (e.g., creation of plate, etc.) This is my solution to the gradual stiffening problem.
5. Anticipate usability and functionality problems. Will the doors open OK? (you did this with the new door). Will I need an outlet here? Do I need a rounded edge so I don't cut myself? Is this sharp thing at a child's eye level? Will I need lighting there? Will an animal scratch this floor? Usability should be considered from a variety of points of view: older people, adults, children, pets, long term visitors, short term visitors, etc. One of the people who bid on my backyard said, "I notice that you have some children's toys back here. If you have kids, I highly recommend St. Augustine since it's much tougher than Marathon." The other guy said, "Marathon? OK." Which do you think I'm more likely to call back when it's time? Not only that, the one guy upsold me and I was happy about it. This should almost be like a template. Client has a dog? Floors should be scratch resistant, maybe doggy door, stronger base cabinets, etc. Client has a child? Ameliorate dust concerns, health hazards, sharp edges, consider non-toxic materials, low VOC/gas adhesives, etc.? Client is old? Rails, universal access, non-slip tub, etc. For example, the fact that my mom might come to stay for awhile should set the template in motion: redoing bathroom? Old person? Might mean rails. Also, don't be fooled by the names of things. Think spaces instead of names. For example, a lot of people don't eat in their dining rooms and may use a nook for all kinds of things. Help to make sure the area is functional as a space, not only for its intended purpose. Does it have adequate light, ventilation and power? What about insulation?
6. Foster a concern for needs of occupants. For example, can you minimize time the water heater is offline? Make sure that gas pilot lights are on after working on gas line. Make sure there is reasonable security and protection from elements. Will electricity ever be out? Where is the saw placed? Is it important that we are able to access the basketball court, etc.?
7. Demonstrate understanding of nature of the project. For instance, working on a craftsman style home is different from working on a tract home. How are these differences reflected in construction? This includes understanding the value of things within context. For example, maybe that floor is really worth saving (as you did mention). Maybe those original cabinets should really be refinished instead of replaced because you can't buy them anymore. This kind of advice can be helpful and save money. Do you have expertise in matching old stuff with new stuff? The people I worked with at the auto body shop were experts at this. They would get the specs on the car color, eyeball the effects of sun and wear then mix up a seamless paint match. One way to figure out what people are envisioning in their projects is to see what they're reading or look at their remodeling scrapbooks (or in my case, website).
8. Exhibit pride of workmanship. Good craftsmen often like to show off the details of their work. It doesn't matter whether it was hard or not. What matters is why it's good. This makes everyone happy.
9. Do a good job of cleaning up when appropriate. This is hard. Even the super-expensive, super-technical lead abatement guys left skid marks in my driveway.
10. Provide flexibility in communication. If I want to communicate via email or web will you do it?
11. Be an interface to the building process. I found that many companies I deal with have two levels of personnel. One person is the client interface. The other personnel do the work. In a small firm you have to do both.
12. Believe that people skills triumph over contracts and technology. You can have clients sign off on all kinds of things, but in the end, if the client isn't happy you will be blamed. Solve problems before you or the client gets unhappy. But of course, contracts and agreements are important too.
13. Understand that rules, institutions and methodologies, at their best, are expressive, not restrictive. Guidelines, when thought of properly, are freeing. They provide ways to help you express a concern for others and a concern for craft. They can make it easier to see things from a variety of viewpoints. As your bid says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
14. Above all: continue to be easy to work with, ethical & try to find equitable ways to resolve problems, working in good faith.
6. Foster a concern for needs of occupants. For example, can you minimize time the water heater is offline? Make sure that gas pilot lights are on after working on gas line. Make sure there is reasonable security and protection from elements. Will electricity ever be out? Where is the saw placed? Is it important that we are able to access the basketball court, etc.?
7. Demonstrate understanding of nature of the project. For instance, working on a craftsman style home is different from working on a tract home. How are these differences reflected in construction? This includes understanding the value of things within context. For example, maybe that floor is really worth saving (as you did mention). Maybe those original cabinets should really be refinished instead of replaced because you can't buy them anymore. This kind of advice can be helpful and save money. Do you have expertise in matching old stuff with new stuff? The people I worked with at the auto body shop were experts at this. They would get the specs on the car color, eyeball the effects of sun and wear then mix up a seamless paint match. One way to figure out what people are envisioning in their projects is to see what they're reading or look at their remodeling scrapbooks (or in my case, website).
8. Exhibit pride of workmanship. Good craftsmen often like to show off the details of their work. It doesn't matter whether it was hard or not. What matters is why it's good. This makes everyone happy.
9. Do a good job of cleaning up when appropriate. This is hard. Even the super-expensive, super-technical lead abatement guys left skid marks in my driveway.
10. Provide flexibility in communication. If I want to communicate via email or web will you do it?
11. Be an interface to the building process. I found that many companies I deal with have two levels of personnel. One person is the client interface. The other personnel do the work. In a small firm you have to do both.
12. Believe that people skills triumph over contracts and technology. You can have clients sign off on all kinds of things, but in the end, if the client isn't happy you will be blamed. Solve problems before you or the client gets unhappy. But of course, contracts and agreements are important too.
13. Understand that rules, institutions and methodologies, at their best, are expressive, not restrictive. Guidelines, when thought of properly, are freeing. They provide ways to help you express a concern for others and a concern for craft. They can make it easier to see things from a variety of viewpoints. As your bid says, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
14. Above all: continue to be easy to work with, ethical & try to find equitable ways to resolve problems, working in good faith.
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