You are working with an architect who consistently provides incomplete drawings that result in change orders. This pattern is affecting your profit margins and client relationships. What is the best approach?
Correct Answer
A) Document the issues and have a professional discussion about expectations
Professional communication and documentation are key to resolving issues while maintaining working relationships. This approach addresses the problem constructively and may lead to improved performance.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Option B represents the most professional and constructive approach to resolving ongoing issues with incomplete drawings. Documentation creates a paper trail that protects your business legally while demonstrating due diligence. Professional communication maintains the working relationship while clearly establishing expectations for future projects. This approach addresses the root cause of the problem rather than just treating symptoms, and gives the architect an opportunity to improve their performance.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: Stop working with this architect immediately
Absorbing additional costs from incomplete drawings is financially unsustainable and sets a dangerous precedent. This approach enables poor performance from the architect and will negatively impact your profit margins and business viability long-term.
Option C: Complete the work as drawn and absorb the additional costs
Immediately terminating the relationship is too extreme and unprofessional without first attempting to resolve the issues through communication. This approach burns bridges unnecessarily and may limit future business opportunities.
Memory Technique
Think 'DOCUMENT and DISCUSS' - always document issues first, then have professional discussions to resolve problems before taking extreme measures.
Reference Hint
Florida Building Code - Chapter 1 (Administration and Enforcement) and Business and Finance for Contractors sections on professional relationships and documentation
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