On June 29, the Intern Development Program (IDP) will be updated to reflect six broad areas of architectural practice—and renamed the Architectural Experience Program (AXP). To help you prepare for this change, we launched a monthly blog series that breaks down the tasks associated with each area. Plus, we offer real-world examples of opportunities that count toward the AXP.

What is Construction & Evaluation?

To gain competency in the tasks associated with Construction & Evaluation, you will need to get involved in the construction administration and post-construction evaluation phases of a project. While the construction team is at work and even after they finish the job, the architect is still actively engaged. This experience area gets you out on the job site, meeting with contractors, clients, and building officials. You will gain experience in contract execution, revision of contractor submittals, field observation, and project close-out procedures.

Construction & Evaluation Tasks (Required Hours: 360)

Upon finishing the AXP, you should be able to competently perform the following tasks:

  • Review shop drawings and submittals during construction for conformance with design intent
  • Respond to Contractor Requests for Information
  • Complete field reports to document quality of work found during field observations
  • Review results from field reports, third-party inspections, and other test results for conformance with contract documents
  • Review Application and Certificate for Payment
  • Manage project close-out procedures and documentation

Are you having trouble gaining Construction & Evaluation experience? Reference the above tasks when meeting with your supervisor, and make a plan to complete the AXP.

Real-World Examples

Almost half way through my IDP, I was concerned that I was behind on my experience requirement in construction administration and observation. The office where I was working had an architect who handled construction administration for all projects, and as my supervisor explained later, the firm did not usually budget for an entry-level licensure candidate to visit the sites. So I asked my supervisor if we could sit down and make a plan to complete the list of tasks I needed to perform to make sure I got a well-rounded experience.

I was fortunate to have a very supportive supervisor who suggested I start by accompanying and observing him during his visits to a local project I had been working on. When he felt more comfortable with my knowledge level, I began to take on more responsibility. At first I was in charge of putting together the field reports for his review, and some weeks later I was already helping with the RFIs, payment applications, and change orders.

You will undoubtedly encounter a few road blocks when it comes to meeting this experience requirement. Work with your supervisor to come up with a plan to overcome those obstacles. Think outside the box. Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need to jump into big tasks directly; instead, focus on taking smaller steps and work your way up. Getting to see your project all the way through to completion will make you fall in love with the profession all over again!

IDP Experience Calculator

Use the IDP Experience Calculator to see how your current hours will merge into the six new experience areas! Any hours that fall outside of the six new areas can be used to fulfill additional jurisdictional requirements.