The Architect's Guide to Developing and Managing an International Practice

Book excerpt: Start or grow your architectural firm with this masterful guide to international practice, featuring country-specific information for over 185 countries The Architect’s Guide to Developing and Managing an International Practice is the definitive resource for architects considering or already engaged in projects outside the United States. Offering expert guidance on every essential aspect of international expansion and management success, this comprehensive volume covers recruiting, licensing, strategic planning, current trends, emerging technologies, and more. Author L. Bradford Perkins clarifies and expands upon the major issues that architects face when they begin to explore how to enter a new international market for their services. This real-world guide is designed for young architects and architectural students thinking about working overseas, for firm leaders pursuing international projects for the first time, and for established global firms seeking to expand or refine their ongoing international practices. It includes advice drawn from dozens of conversations with leading architects who have worked in dozens of countries around the world. A must-read for architecture and design professionals wanting to successfully win and carry out work abroad, this book will help you: Plan an entry into international practice Pick the best initial or next international market for your services Sell and contract for your services Manage the financial aspects of international practice Invoice and collect what is owed to you Enhance your domestic practice with international work Understand the telecommunication, software, and technology platforms required Identify and avoid the common problems of international practice Understand how experienced global firms effectively deal with risks and issues Written by the co-founder of Perkins Eastman Architects, an international architectural firm with more than 1000 employees and work experience in over 60 countries, The Architect’s Guide to Developing and Managing an International Practice is an indispensable reference and guide for any architect planning to seek work outside the United States.