How can architects thrive within the future of architecture by embracing the professional business development aspects of the practice? 

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. 

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. 

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. 

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 

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. 

Tune in next week for an episode about the future leaders of AIA’s Firm of the Year Award Winner, Quinn Evans. 

Guest:

Aya Shlachter

Aya 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:  

Connect with Aya on Linkedin

Architect My Business Podcast

MGS Global Group

Architect My Business on YouTube 

📚Continue Learning:

Evelyn Lee’s Linkedin

The AIA/Deltek Architecture Billings Index (ABI)

MAICON Cleveland 2024 Conference in Ohio

Harvard Business Review: Highly Skilled Professionals Want Your Work But Not Your Job

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