The Associated General Contractors of America and the American Institute of Architects released a joint framework on May 27 aimed at strengthening collaboration between architects and contractors to improve project outcomes in the construction industry. The report, titled ‘Toward Collaboration’s Future: Strengthening the Architect-Contractor Relationship,’ presents strategies for enhancing communication, aligning incentives, managing risk, and fostering stronger team performance from project conception through completion.
“Successful construction projects depend on strong collaboration between architects and contractors,” said Jeffrey D. Shoaf, the AGC’s chief executive officer. “This new framework provides a roadmap for improving communication, reducing conflict and delivering better results for owners and project teams alike.”
The document is based on a multi-year effort involving input from leaders across design and construction disciplines. It is intended for use by architects, contractors, owners, and project teams of various sizes using different delivery methods. The report highlights establishing clear communication protocols early in the process, engaging contractors during design to enhance constructability and cost certainty, as well as defining roles to reduce risk.
It also emphasizes using shared performance metrics to track outcomes such as quality, safety, and schedule while promoting trust and mutual accountability among team members. “Architects and contractors perform best when aligned early on shared goals, clear roles and open communication,” said Carole Wedge, AIA CEO/Executive Vice President. “This team-based framework builds trust, aligns incentives, manages risk proactively, and uses digital coordination to improve decisions from design through completion—driving better outcomes for owners, stronger teams and higher-performing projects.”
The framework underscores proactive risk management practices along with structured change management processes. It encourages adopting digital tools for improved coordination throughout the project lifecycle. Officials from both organizations said that increased collaboration can lead to higher-quality projects with fewer delays or disputes.
The Nevada Chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America supports Nevada’s construction community by offering resources; advocating through member involvement in civic affairs; influencing state legislation; operating under its charter; representing general as well as specialty contractors, according to the official website.
