168: Intellectual Property and the Future of Practice

How can knowledge management promote sustainability, equity, and overall architecture firm excellence? On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Corey Squire, associate principal and sustainability director at Bora Architecture & Interiors, member of AIA's Strategic Council, and leader of the creation of the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. As a national lecturer on sustainability, Corey offers an expert perspective on using knowledge management to elevate a firm's performance and sustainability standards within the built environment. First, Corey shares his journey into knowledge management and sustainability. He explains the process of implementing a knowledge management system at a firm, highlighting the challenges and benefits of using an intranet platform.Then, we discuss his approach to building team trust by ensuring the system is valuable to all team members. Corey explains the key principles for effective knowledge management and expands on benefits like gathering information, meeting goals, maintaining equity, diversifying applications, and improving communication within the firm. I always ask: How are your goals documented? Sometimes it's an external website, which is fine. Sometimes it's on a document in a server somewhere. But a goal is only so great as you have the resources and support to allow any individual in that organization to be empowered to act towards that goal. That's what the interlinking, updated information, and flow paths we're talking about within the internet allow for. - Corey SquireTo wrap up the conversation, Corey acknowledges the dual nature of knowledge management, balancing the initial time investment with long-term benefits. He shares his vision for the future of knowledge management in architecture and emphasizes the potential of a consistent framework throughout the practice.Tune in next week for an episode about the intersection of fashion, design, and technology in the architecture field. Guests:Corey Squire, AIACorey Squire, AIA an Associate Principal and Sustainability Director at Bora Architecture & Interior in Portland Oregon, and a member of the AIA's Strategic Council. He lectures nationally on a range of sustainability-related topics and led the creation of the AIA Framework for Design Excellence and associated Toolkit, resources that are actively redefining excellence in the built environment. Corey is the author of the recently published book, People, Planet, Design: A Practical Guide to Realizing Architecture’s Potential.  📍 Show Links:  Connect with Corey on LinkedInPeople Planet Design - Discount Code: PPD📚Continue Learning:KA Talk on Sustainability Knowledge Management AIA Framework For Design Excellence Bora Architecture & Interiors Guru Squarespace 📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:Facebook |...

How can architects protect and monetize their creative work with the help of intellectual property (IP) laws? On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we’re joined by Ana Juneja, an award-winning intellectual property (IP) attorney and founder of Ana Law® – the first law firm offering flat-fee, 100% guaranteed services for patents, trademarks, and copyrights. In our conversation, Ana explores the essential role of IP in the architecture field.First, Ana breaks down the four main types of intellectual property: copyrights, trademarks, patents, and trade secrets. She explains how each type applies to architecture and protecting creative works within client relationships and employee contracts.Then, we dive into the intersection of AI and IP rights. Ana shares advice on protecting your designs, tools, and software created with AI and outlines the steps to securing patents and trademarks for your work.You're investing in your trademark in order to protect your name, your marketing, and your branding. If you're building up this brand, you're putting in so much time, money, energy, and effort into doing so – you wouldn't really want to lose it…Whereas copyrights and patents are things that, for architects in particular, are incredibly valuable avenues to monetize your brand. It is really protection for your own investments that you're making into your business. - Ana JunejaTo wrap up the conversation, Ana highlights common IP mistakes architects make and offers practical tips to avoid them. She emphasizes the importance of understanding IP laws, using strong contracts and NDAs, and taking proactive steps to safeguard your work. Tune in next week for an episode about Guests:Ana JunejaAs an award-winning intellectual property attorney and the founder of Ana Law®, Ana Juneja helps celebrities, athletes, influencers, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and corporations secure + monetize their brands and ideas in the US and abroad. Ana Law® is the first and only law firm that offers flat-fee, 100% guaranteed patent, trademark, and copyright services. Ana has a 100% success rate and often speaks on important topics such as emerging legal issues surrounding security, AI, and social media. Additionally, Ana has extensive experience with social media intellectual property infringement issues. Ana’s insider connections with premier media agencies allow her to have direct access to key social media platforms, such as Meta (Facebook/Instagram), TikTok, and Twitter. These essential services are an important component of brand protection strategy for Ana’s celebrity, athlete, & influencer clients.📍 Show Links:  Connect with Ana on LinkedIn📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | TwitterCheck out our past episodes Be a part of our community — join the conversation

How can diverse leadership, perspectives, and ideas drive innovation and meaningful change in the AEC industry?On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we have a fascinating conversation with Rolf Provan, the unconventional CEO of Luckett and Farley, an architecture, engineering, and interior design firm. Rolf's unique marketing background in well-known household brands, informs our discussion on innovation, leadership, and opportunities for meaningful change in the AEC industry.First, we explore Rolf's background and how it shaped his love for design. He shares his journey to becoming CEO at Luckett and Farley and his approach to bridging communication between employees and leadership. We discuss industry challenges, Rolf's strategies to address these issues, and the mindset he's adopted in his role.Then, Rolf outlines the firm's approach to sustainability and their method for setting environmental change goals. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and diverse perspectives, and how to effectively cultivate ideas and implement change.I can't innovate if I'm not willing to look at what somebody in a different profession or with a different background or with different beliefs or a different culture is doing…Celebrating differences and bringing different perspectives from different places, to me, is perhaps the most valuable thing that we can do. Architecture can't get better if we keep using the same tool set against the same thing over and over. - Rolf Provan To wrap up the conversation, we touch on the self-limiting beliefs in architecture that have held the industry back. Rolf offers advice for those aspiring to enter careers where they have little experience and shares his perspective on ways to make an impact in the future of architecture and design. Tune in next week for an episode about intellectual property and the future of practice. Guests:Rolf ProvanRolf has driven client-focused innovation and change for some of the worlds biggest brands and businesses, including Shell, Coca-Cola, Volvo, BAT and Anthem. A creative at heart and a "dot-connector," Provan is dialed in with the design community and understands the innovative power of an inter-disciplinary design approach for the clients in each of the market sectors Luckett & Farley serves. Since he joined Luckett & Farley he has helped define the company's purpose and vision and has advocated for the central role that design must play in our community and in our region. His vision is to leverage Luckett & Farley's inter-disciplinary approach to improve the quality of life, enhance workforce development, and enable the regional economy through impactful design harnessing the power of design for good.📍 Show Links:  Connect with Rolf on LinkedIn📚Continue Learning:Hidden Potential by Adam Grant📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | TwitterCheck...

How can we leverage a background in architecture with soft skills to successfully transition from architecture to product management?On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we chat with Liz Fibleuil, who made an inspiring transition from architecture to product management. With a Master's in Architecture and Sustainable Design and over 10 years of experience, Liz leverages her architectural background with her soft skills to deliver digital solutions at Tanooki Labs. In our conversation, we explore Liz's transition from architecture to tech and her perspective on changing career paths.&nbsp;First, Liz opens up about her architectural background, why she drifted away from the field, and how she ended up in her current role as a project manager. She offers advice on recognizing when it's time to step away from a career, overcoming fear to make that transition, and positioning yourself in a new industry even without prior experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Then, Liz offers strategies for self-teaching tech skills and dives into the details of her role as a product manager at Tanooki Labs. We discuss her current responsibilities, challenges during the transition, and how she learned from each setback.The moment that you're starting to question if this is the right path for you, whether you are 5 years in or 35, don't ignore that…Why don't I love it? Is it a fundamental reason why I don't love it? Is it a financial reason? Is it because I don't love my boss? What are the real reasons that you are discontent at any stage in your career? Once you define that, then start to analyze if you can find it somewhere else, and really go through that personal exploration. - Liz Fibleuil&nbsp;To wrap up the conversation, Liz reflects on what she misses most about architecture while emphasizing the importance of empathy in both fields. She expresses her optimism about the future of the tech industry and shares her long-term goals.Tune in next week for an episode with Rolf Provan, CEO of Luckett &amp; Farley, on how his diverse experiences have shaped his leadership style and where he sees the biggest opportunities for our industry to drive meaningful change.&nbsp;Guests:Liz FibleuilLiz Fibleuil, a Panama-born architect with over 10 years of experience, has successfully transitioned into a Product Manager role, leveraging her soft skills to excel. With a Masters in Architecture and Sustainable Design, Liz's passion lies in creating user-centric experiences. As a Product Manager, she manages various web and mobile application projects, empathizing with users and stakeholders. Alongside her professional endeavors, Liz finds inspiration in literature as a habit reader and expresses her creativity through painting. With over three years of experience in product management, Liz combines her architectural expertise with her empathetic nature to deliver exceptional digital solutions.📍 Show Links:&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Liz on LinkedIn📚Continue Learning:Tanooki Labs📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter<a...

How can AI, automation, and technology democratize custom home design and improve the home building process for both buyers and architects?On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we welcome Marc Minor and Michael Bergin, the co-founders of Higharc. With Marc's passion for combining design and technology and Michael's dedication to improving the built environment through design automation, they created Higharc. Higharc provides software tools to make custom home design more accessible, enabling users to design, estimate, sell, and build their ideal homes. Our discussion is focused on their vision for democratizing custom home design.First, Marc and Michael discuss the origins of Higharc, their relationship as co-founders, and their goal to bring design automation to the industry. They highlight the ways tech can address housing shortages, improve affordability, and enhance the home-building process.Then, we dive into efficient customization in home design and how Higharc empowers architects to engage with the industry on a larger scale. They share strategies for optimizing the home-buying experience for both buyers and architects, working with the industry's supply and demand, and managing the current housing market.What really is going to make it so that houses are more affordable is addressing the supply problem. Higharc as a business is also very pointed at this soft cycle supply problem making it faster to build homes so that we have more homes for people to move into. There's an ecosystem here, and if we could take that knowledge and have systems that enable professionals to engage with this process, this industry at greater scale, we all stand to benefit. - Michael BerginTo wrap up the conversation, Marc and Michael look to the future and share their vision for bridging the gap between architects and buyers, with the goal to create more diverse, automated, and connected communities.Tune in next week for an episode with Tanooki Labs Product Manager, Liz Fibleuil.&nbsp;Guests:Marc Minor:Marc started Higharc with the goal of making good home design accessible to more people. He’s passionate about pairing design with technology and guiding teams to bring those technologies to market. Prior to starting Higharc, Marc launched two 3D printing companies — Desktop Metal and Carbon3D — out of stealth to become industry leaders, and held management roles for some of the world’s most beloved brands and creative consultancies.Michael Bergin:Michael is VP of Product and Co-Founder of Higharc. Throughout his career, he has been dedicated to improving the built environment through design automation. Early in his architecture training, he became dissatisfied with the slow pace and limited accessibility of custom home design. Frustrated, he returned to graduate school and explored the potential to improve these conditions through research into mass-customization of homes. He applied these concepts in practice as a Research Lead at Autodesk, creating a product enabling design automation for the automotive and aerospace industries. His work leading the product design effort culminated in the release of Autodesk Generative Design.📍 Show Links:&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Marc on LinkedInConnect with Michael on LinkedInFollow Higharc on LinkedIn📚Continue Learning:Architechie&nbsp;Contact <a href="https://www.higharc.com/request-a-demo" rel="noopener...

How can architects think broadly about their career options and the various ways they can contribute to and grow within the built environment?&nbsp;On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we're joined by Laura Wake-Ramos, a business development manager at Mortenson. As an architect and real estate developer with experience in design-build construction, she brings a unique perspective to the intersection of architecture and construction. In our conversation, Laura shares her journey in the field, insights on alternative career paths outside of traditional practice, and thoughts on the future of architecture.First, Laura shares her background of getting into architecture and what a business development manager does at Mortenson. She provides insight into business development in architecture, explaining how she balances creativity with construction logistics.&nbsp;Then, Laura dives into alternative career paths in architecture, emphasizing the importance of building support networks and diversifying your skills. She offers advice on following your curiosity and taking career development risks while highlighting the benefit of continuing education.In simplest terms, I think of real estate development as a Shark Tank of architecture – where you have this concept, you have this design, you have this idea, and you need to talk about how you're going to get it funded. That's where I think the bridge between architecture and development lies. The development world has connections to private equity and to the debt partners to get buildings funded. - Laura Wake-RamosTo wrap up the conversation, we discuss gaps in the architecture profession. Laura identifies areas for improvement in architectural education, such as the need for more business knowledge in capital markets and market analytics. She shares her aspirations to elevate alternative career perspectives in architecture and break down barriers between architecture and allied professions.Tune in next week for an episode about the future of housing with the co-founders of Higharc.Guests:Laura Wake-RamosLaura is a leader in project delivery through strategy, leading teams, and technology integration.&nbsp; As a Business Development Manager with Mortenson, Laura is responsible for cultivating real estate development opportunities in the Washington DC metro region, leading with the strategy of integrated developer-builder. Laura’s career encompasses construction management, design-build management, and virtual design &amp; construction integration.&nbsp;One notable project Laura led as the Design Phase Manager was a historic renovation project in Washington DC that won a National Design-Build Award in 2023. Laura serves as the 2023-2024 Chair of the AIA Project Delivery Knowledge Community, and serves as 2024-2026 At-Large Representative for AIA Strategic Council. Laura is passionate about volunteering and giving back her experience to the community. Laura has volunteered with the ACE Mentorship Program of America, Greater Washington Affiliate Board Member, Arquitina, Design-Build Institute of America, Mid-Atlantic Board Secretary, and DBIA student chapter liaison.&nbsp;📍 Show Links:&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Laura on LinkedInMortenson📚Continue Learning:ACE Mentor Program of AmericaDesign-Build Institute of America📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/PracticeofArchitecture/" rel="noopener...

How can architecture firms grow alongside the future of the practice by exploring other business models and embracing opportunities for innovation?On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we’re excited to introduce Lawrence Fabbroni as our new Chief Innovation Officer at The Practice of Architecture. Larry is an architect with over twenty years of experience and has been involved in many major development projects in the US. Currently, he works as a consultant focusing on strategic pre-development services. Today, Larry talks about his architecture and business career and his plans to enhance innovation within our company.First, Larry discusses his career background and his role in The AIA Practice Innovation Lab. As an MBA candidate at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Larry shares key takeaways he learned that can benefit our approach to innovation in architecture.Then, we dive into the challenges that firms encounter in managing growth and sustainability alongside the evolution of architecture and AI. Larry highlights what we're currently working on and our goals, how our consulting service differs from others in the AEC space, and the exciting opportunities to merge the expertise of Larry's network with The Practice of Architecture network.In the world of innovation, we separate what we define as invention and innovation. There's multiple types of innovation that can happen, and the most common is to innovate iteratively on what you already do, right? I think architects are really inclined to want to be really creative and kind of develop something brand new all the time. That's how you cause major disruption, maybe, but that's not the majority of innovation that's happening in this other space. - Larry Fabbroni&nbsp;To wrap up the conversation, we explore the importance of mindset shifts for fostering innovation in the industry's future, the role of mid-sized companies, the potential for creativity, and the influence of workplace culture on driving innovation within firms.Tune in next week for an episode where we continue our "Architecture, and" series with a guest who’s making a significant impact beyond traditional practice—Laura Wake-Ramos.&nbsp;Guests:Lawerence J. Fabbroni, AIA, LEED APLarry is an architect with over two decades in practice. He formerly led master planning projects at Ehrenkrantz Eckstut &amp; Kuhn Architects and Strada Architecture. He has worked on some of the largest development projects in the US, and currently works as an consultant focused on strategic pre-development services. Currently, Larry is an MBA candidate at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business where he focuses on entrepreneurship and strategy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Larry has received the AIA Pennsylvania Emerging Professional of the Year award, as well as the AIA’s national Young Architect Award. He is formerly a national president of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), a national Chair of the AIA’s Young Architects’ Forum (YAF), and a national board member of the American Insti­tute of Architects (AIA). He has been a leader in many other local and regional organizations.&nbsp;📍 Show Links:&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Larry on LinkedIn📚Continue Learning:The Practice of Architecture WebsitePractice Innovation Lab📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:Facebook | <a...

How is Quinn Evans embracing sustainability, historic preservation, and equity in their practice to positively impact the future of architecture, environments, and communities?On this episode of Practice Disrupted, we're joined by the next generation of leaders from Quinn Evans, the 2025 AIA Firm of the Year Winner: Julia Siple, Principal and Director of Sustainability, and Senior Associates Nakita Reed and Charles Sparkman. We discuss Quinn Evans' focus on sustainable architecture, their workplace environment, and how this award will shape the firm's future.First, our guests share their paths to becoming architects, joining Quinn Evans, and what it means to the firm to win the award. Because the award also involves creating a positive work culture, the panel explains how the firm fosters an enjoyable work environment, embraces diversity, and supports employee development through mentorship and engagement groups.Then, we discuss the firm’s inspired approach to professional and leadership development. They also reflect on ways they’ve continued to collaborate within the hybrid remote work model.&nbsp;&nbsp;As architects, we should be designing things that we want a preservationist to want to preserve in 50 years. As preservationists, we're not just trying to preserve things in amber. It's about how we sensibly manage change and understand how to see things from multiple viewpoints. The sustainability impacts, the cultural impacts, the neighborhood impacts, and all of the ways that existing places really matter are what we strive for and we thrive in at Quinn Evans. Winning the firm of the year...it's great to finally see preservation, adaptive reuse, sustainability, and stewardship shine. - Nakita ReedTo wrap up the conversation, we touch on Quinn Evans' commitment to learning, curiosity, and industry evolution. They express their hopes for the future of the firm with the role of technology and AI in historic preservation.&nbsp;Tune in next week for an episode with Practice of Architecture’s New CIO, Larry Fabbroni.Guests:Julia Siple, AIA, LEED AP BD+C | Principal, Director of SustainabilityJulia is an architect and advocate for design that positively impacts people, ecosystems, and climate. As Quinn Evans’ director of sustainability, she leads efforts to empower teams and projects to achieve sustainable and high-performing outcomes.&nbsp;Nakita Reed, AIA, CPHC, LEED AP BD+C, NOMA | Senior AssociateNakita's career focuses on the intersection of historic preservation, sustainable design, and equity. She is skilled in both restoration and adaptive use of historic buildings and serves on multiple boards, including the Zero Net Carbon Collaboration for Existing and Historic Buildings (ZNCC).Charles Sparkman, AIA, LEED AP BD+C | Senior AssociateCharles's integrated design approach synthesizes art, building science, and research into architecture that is rich in meaning and beautiful in craft. He is adept in complex historic preservation projects and new construction that elevates campuses and communities.📍 Show Links:&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Julia on LinkedInConnect with Nakita on LinkedInConnect with Charles on LinkedInConnect with Quinn Evans on LinkedInFollow Quinn Evans on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/QuinnEvans.QE/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

How can architects thrive within the future of architecture by embracing the professional business development aspects of the practice?&nbsp;Welcome to Season 9 of Practice Disrupted! In this episode, we are joined by Aya Shlachter, the CEO and owner of MGS Global Group and the host of the "Architect My Business" podcast, where she provides valuable insights for small businesses in the architecture industry. Today, our conversation is focused on various business-related issues within architecture firms and strategies for addressing these effectively so architects can thrive and develop stronger management practices for the future of architecture.&nbsp;First, Aya and Evelyn dive into the role of education in the future of architecture and how schools can equip new architects with necessary skills. Evelyn explains why firms should adapt their business models to support the nuanced teachings in schools. We touch on the need for schools to provide more resources to students to support the growing influence of delivering beyond the buildings.&nbsp;Then, we discuss integrating freelancers into firms and the recent shift to the gig economy within the workforce, expanding on aspects such as healthcare, freelancers versus fractional employees, and how this trend allows for more flexibility within the industry. Evelyn also shares potential solutions for the lack of professional development in business for architects outside of firms.&nbsp;Architects are aware of their weaknesses in business management. Despite this awareness, there's still a gap in addressing issues effectively. So, for architects to thrive, they need to develop stronger business strategies and management practices. I always say architects were taught how to master their craft but not taught how to run or grow a business. - Aya Shlachter&nbsp;To wrap up the conversation, Aya and Evelyn address AI's impact on the future of architecture. Evelyn also opens up about her decision to become a full-time business owner and reflects on the growth of the Practice Disrupted community.&nbsp;Tune in next week for an episode about the future leaders of AIA’s Firm of the Year Award Winner, Quinn Evans.&nbsp;Guest:Aya ShlachterAya is the CEO and owner of MGS Global Group, a female minority-owned business providing full-service architecture support to the AEC industry. She has impressively expanded the company from a solo operation to a thriving firm with 50 plus employees , serving hundreds of clients, including publicly traded and Fortune 500 companies.📍 Show Links:&nbsp;&nbsp;Connect with Aya on LinkedinArchitect My Business PodcastMGS Global GroupArchitect My Business on YouTube&nbsp;📚Continue Learning:Evelyn Lee’s LinkedinThe AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI)MAICON Cleveland 2024 Conference in OhioHarvard Business Review: Highly Skilled Professionals Want Your Work But Not Your Job<a...

How do we expand mental health support to professionals across the industry of architecture?Peter Exley, FAIA, RIBA, NOMA, a former AIA National President, Gregg A. Garmisa, J.D., Principal and General Counsel at Studio Gang, and Korey D. White, AIA, NCARB, Senior Associate at DLR Group and a member of the AIA Strategic Council join us to address the growing concerns related to the mental health and well-being of individuals working in the profession of architecture.&nbsp;“As the industry continues to transform and grapple with inequities, workforce diversity, labor challenges and climate change, among other current issues, we challenge our colleagues to join in a collective and inclusive commitment to expand mental health support throughout our profession.” – Peter Exley, Gregg Garmisa, and Korey White, “We Need a Safe Place to Address Our Mental Health,” Chicago Architect, Summer 2022.&nbsp;In this episode, we’ll discuss the problem we’re facing related to mental health in the profession of architecture and steps we can take to start to address this challenge. This episode is dedicated to anyone who is currently or has previously struggled with burnout, mental health, addiction, substance abuse, or related mental health challenges. You are not alone. There is a community of allies who seek to destigmatize, raise awareness, build acceptance, and build better overall well-being practices within our profession.Guests:Peter Exley’s career is committed to an equitable and inclusive built environment for children, families, and communities.As co-founder of Architecture Is Fun, he uses the power of design to build places and spaces that reflect the values, ambitions, and purpose of every stakeholder on myriad civic, cultural, private, and not-for-profit agencies.As a teacher, he is nurturing future architects as the primary and credible resource with the explicit training and qualification to lead the creation of healthy and equitable net-zero place-making.As the 97th President of the American Institute of Architects, he led AIA’s delegation to COP26 in Glasgow, and advanced the AIA Headquarters renewal project embodying the urgent need for climate action alongside a dramatic transformation for workplace, member, and community experience.Gregg Garmisa is Principal and General Counsel at Studio Gang, based in the Studio’s Chicago office. Gregg interacts with clients, consultants, and our design teams on all projects to establish and maintain productive and collegial professional relationships.Immediately prior to joining the Studio, Gregg was Vice President and General Counsel at a national engineering and sustainability consulting firm, where he became one of Studio Gang’s earliest collaborators. Before that, he practiced law and provided public policy guidance to clients in Washington, DC, and Chicago, and served as a legislative advisor to a US senator on Capitol Hill.Gregg is an invited member of the Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys, a former board member of the American Institute of Architects Chicago, and a former trustee of the Chicago Architecture Center. He is an experienced lecturer on current topics at the intersection of the design profession and the law, which he has delivered at undergraduate- and graduate-level architecture programs as well as conferences...