LIBRARY // OUTSOURCING ARCHITECTURAL PRODUCTION

Roles in an Outsourced Architectural Production Team

Knowing who does what in a production team makes it much easier to give the right feedback to the right person.

Outsourced production teams usually include several roles. Understanding them helps the in-house team know who to speak to, who's responsible for quality and how work flows. Titles vary between partners, but the functions are similar.

Common roles

• Drafters or CAD technicians: produce 2D drawings from markups, sketches or models
• BIM modellers: build and maintain Revit or other BIM models
• Senior technicians or technical Architects: handle complex details, coordination and technical problems
• Team leads or project coordinators: manage tasks, deadlines and communication
• Checkers or QA reviewers: review work against standards and briefs before delivery
• BIM coordinators: manage model standards, clash checks and data

Smaller teams may combine roles.

The single point of contact

Most arrangements work best with one main contact on each side. On the outsourcing side, this is usually the team lead. On the in-house side, it's often the project Architect or project manager. A single point of contact reduces confusion and conflicting instructions.

Who answers questions

Production questions often need input from the design team. Agree who answers them and how quickly. Delays in answers are one of the main causes of slow progress.

Who checks the work

The partner should check work internally before delivery. The in-house team then reviews it as part of the practice's own quality process. Responsibility for issued drawings stays with the practice.

Skills to look for

• Software skills, such as AutoCAD and Revit
• Knowledge of drawing conventions for your region
• Understanding of construction
• Familiarity with relevant codes, at least at a working level
• Good written communication

Continuity

Keeping the same people on your projects helps them learn your standards. Ask partners how they handle holidays, absences and staff changes.

Training

New team members need an introduction to office standards. A short onboarding document with examples helps them get up to speed quickly.

Escalation

Clear responsibilities

Write down who does what, including:

• Who briefs the team
• Who manages files
• Who checks drawings
• Who approves issues

A simple responsibility table avoids gaps.

1. 01Common roles
2. 02The single point of contact
3. 03Who answers questions
4. 04Who checks the work
5. 05Skills to look for
6. 06Continuity

Meet the team

Even if communication usually goes through the team lead, an introductory call with the wider team helps. Knowing who's working on your projects builds trust and makes questions easier.

Clear roles make outsourced teams more effective and help the in-house team spend less time managing and more time on design.

If your team needs extra production capacity for work like this, take a look at our Architectural production services, or tell us about your project.