Every architectural and engineering firm offers its own blend of skills and experience. Some specialize in certain project types. Some provide in-house expertise in all or most areas. Others bring in consultants as needed. So, just how do you decide which firm is best for your project? Talk to more than one firm, unless you already have a good relationship with one and know the team's work. Contact owners who have developed similar projects and ask for a list of firms they considered — and ask why they chose the firm they did. Find out who designed buildings you like and talk to the architect or firm about your project. Contact the local American Institute of Architects (www.aia.org) or the American Council of Engineering Companies (www.acec.org) for a referral list. Conduct interviews. Talk to three or four different firms. In addition to asking questions about how each might approach your project, you'll find out which one "feels right." Talk with past or current clients of the firm or firms you're considering. Ask about performance during the development phase of the project — and about results. Visit existing buildings or sites designed and developed by the firms on your short list. Make sure you feel good about the balance between a firm's design ability, technical expertise, staff availability and experience, and costs. Ask for fee proposals once you've narrowed your selection list, making sure you give each firm the same specs and information on which to bid. Ask questions about anything you don't understand. And ask about how the firm plans to work with you on your project: Who will be the firm's liaison? What exactly will the firm contribute to the project? Will outside services be needed? If so, which ones? How will the firm provide for quality control? Who will determine construction costs? And...be ready to provide information about your vision and your project's purpose, budget, timeframe, and site. Let prospective firms know if other decision-makers will be involved as the project gets underway. Remember, most architectural and engineering firms pride themselves on their desire and ability to listen and to discern what each client needs and wants. Your firm wants your project to be successful as much as you do — and that can only happen when strong business relationships are built on trust. That's what we want, and that's how we work. AMES A/E.