IT services for architecture are critical for modern Australia AEC firms. Why? Let’s say you’re a top architecture firm working on a cutting-edge skyscraper design using the latest software. Out of the blue, a ransomware attack cripples your systems, holding precious project data hostage and putting the whole project at risk. This shows just why we need managed IT services for architect firms.
So, as firms try to stay on top of things, architecture managed IT services providers are a big help in letting them embrace new ideas, work more efficiently, and keep their valuable intellectual property safe. Now, let’s look at some more reasons why architecture firms need managed IT services.
What Are Managed IT Services for Architects?
Managed IT services for architects are all about making technology work for architecture firms. These services can help with everything from BIM software support and CAD software support to data management and compliance. By partnering with IT consulting for architecture experts, your firm gains tailored strategies to integrate tools like Revit and AutoCAD seamlessly.
A recent AIA study found over 80% of architectural firms use BIM/CAD software like Autodesk Revit. This means a strong IT setup needs to be in place to cope with large amounts of data, ensure the software works together, and give project teams easy access.
The AIA study also showed that architecture firms need a solid IT foundation to handle all the new digital demands, including Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D modelling, and project management systems.
Take Interscale’s work with VJA and Ewert Leaf, for example. Interscale case study shows how these services make Revit workflows more efficient, saving firms time and significantly enhancing their design processes through customised IT support (e.g. automation, template optimisation).
Figures from Systemic Risks in the Australian Architecture Sector support this. They show that firms are seeking managed IT solutions due to rising project loads and complex regulatory compliance requirements.
It’s worth mentioning how these services cut down on downtime and keep data safe. That’s a big deal in architecture, where even a quick system hiccup can slow down projects and drive up costs.
But before we get into the advantages, let’s take a quick look at the challenges of managed IT services, here “7 Challenges of Managed IT Services: The Good, The Bad, & The Strategy.”
Why Architecture Firm Need Managed IT Services and Support
Navigating Complex Software Transitions
Moving from one software platform to another can be a big change for a business. But for architectural firms, where software is key to design, drafting and collaboration, that disruption can be vital if it’s not handled right.
The AIA report shows how the size of a firm affects how it manages IT and, in turn, its ability to handle software transitions.
Smaller firms with 1–10 employees often don’t have dedicated IT professionals and handle IT maintenance on an ad hoc basis. These firms could really benefit from the help of managed IT providers when it comes to implementing new software solutions, providing training and managing the integration process.
Mid-sized firms (10–49 employees) are increasingly turning to managed service providers (MSPs) for their IT needs. However, only 51% of these firms have a retained contract in place. This suggests many firms may rely on less structured, potentially less reliable IT support during critical transitions.
The report also shows the architecture firms of all sizes are facing a big tech challenge: Not many of them are using CRM and ERP systems. Only a small number of firms have put these solutions in place, which makes it harder for them to manage business development, marketing and project finances effectively.
Managed IT services for architecture can help choose and set up the systems, making your business operations more efficient and giving you a solid foundation for future growth.
Maximising the Potential of Revit
AIA report highlights a critical aspect of maximising Revit’s potential: Effective utilisation of supporting technologies. While 87% of architectural firms use BIM/CAD software like Revit, fewer use other crucial software solutions.
Just 59% of firms use construction management software and only 38% use specification software. This can make it harder for a firm to fully integrate Revit into their workflow.
For instance, construction management software can help architects and contractors work together more easily and share data more effectively, using the detailed models created in Revit. Similarly, specification software can make it easier to create and manage specifications, ensuring consistency and accuracy across the project. Simply put, IT solutions for architecture firms can help you manage your tech and can help you choose and implement these other solutions.
Enhanced Project Management
As we all know, architects have a lot on their plates. They have to keep on top of changes to projects, get through design and specification reviews quickly and efficiently, and have a clear process for approving changes.
The AIA report found that less than half of respondents felt they had the skills to meet these challenges. For example, only 49% said they could keep on top of project and specification changes effectively. These issues directly affect how efficiently the firm can operate.
The report shows that there’s a link between using certain project management software and how firms rate their capabilities.
Architects at firms that had adopted solutions such as construction management software and specification software reported much stronger capabilities across various project management areas.
This shows that managed IT services can help architectural firms to manage projects better and work more efficiently by making it easier for them to use the right software.
Risk Mitigation for Design & Construct (D&C) Models
The Design & Construct (D&C) model has its pros and cons. On the plus side, it offers single-point responsibility and fixed-price contracts. However, it also presents unique risks for architects, particularly concerning unfair contract terms and increased liability exposure.
The best managed IT services for architects can help to reduce any risks related to IT stuff even if they don’t directly involve technology.
John Sharkey, Phillip Greenham, Matthew Bell, Wayne Jocic, Julia Korolkova and Didi Hu say that D&C contracts, which are often made up as they go along, can include unfair terms that shift too much risk onto architects, which could make it harder for them to get professional indemnity insurance.
IT services architect responsibilities include understanding architectural workflows deeply. Providers mitigate risks by improving communication, documentation, and cybersecurity for architecture, ensuring compliance with liability standards in D&C contracts. For instance, Ewert Leaf, in partnership with Interscale, showed how managed IT services for architects can help with liability management.
Having a centralised IT infrastructure meant that projects could be tracked more easily, reducing the chance of mistakes and making it easier to keep stakeholders informed. Thanks to Interscale’s solid licence management for key software, Ewert Leaf could concentrate on delivering top-quality projects with reduced contractual and compliance risks, which is really important in the complex D&C landscape.
Simplifying Complex License Management
IT services for architecture simplify complex license management, ensuring firms comply with software agreements while maintaining uninterrupted access to tools like Revit and AutoCAD. Because having the right software tools, including Revit, AutoCAD, and BIM applications, is a big part of getting a project done right.
The AIA report says that 51% of mid-sized firms use outsourced IT support. A dedicated managed IT team ensures you stick to software agreements, which helps you avoid costly penalties. It also means you can access and use essential tools without any problems.
For instance, Ewert Leaf, a company with 11–50 employees, was looking to make their IT operations, including software licence management, a lot simpler. By teaming up with Interscale, they got all their tech needs taken care of by one company.
This approach not only cut down on Ewert Leaf’s admin work but also made sure they were following the licensing agreements.
Cost Predictability and Savings
The AIA report shows how important it is to manage projects well and keep track of the money involved if you want to know how much something will cost. This report found that only 74% of firms say they have reliable data on the profitability of each project.
Not having a clear view of the finances can mean you don’t see the costs coming up and cause problems with future budgets.
IT support for architecture includes setting up project management software and financial tracking systems. This ensures cost predictability while maintaining cybersecurity for architecture, keeping an eye on project costs in real-time, and making better financial decisions.
This helps to keep costs under control and make more accurate financial forecasts, which makes it easier for the company to predict future costs.
Ewert Leaf was able to free up valuable time and resources by partnering with Interscale to streamline their IT operations, allowing them to focus on their core competencies. They streamlined their IT operations by consolidating their various IT needs under a single provider.
In short, managed IT services allow architecture firms to focus on core business, while other teams manage your IT. Another good news: It is more cost-effective than using an internal team.
Training Tailored to Architectural Needs
IT support help architecture firms do more by teaching them how to use software and project workflows in the way that suits them best.
Some IT services used a multi-faceted approach to training, starting with the basics and then moving on to hands-on exercises to help people get to grips with Revit.
Proactive Approach to Any Compliance
IT services not only focus on managing IT for architecture firms, but also help them meet various regulations. For example, related to climate change.
John Sharkey and colleagues point out the risks of moving to net-zero and adapting to climate change. The report says that architects could be held liable if they don’t adequately explain the implications of sustainable design to their clients or use untested designs and materials.
Managed IT service providers can really help architects meet these challenges by giving them the tools and knowledge they need. For example, they can help architects get Building Information Modeling (BIM) software up and running. This lets architects check how energy-efficient their designs are and explore different ways to make them more sustainable.
On top of that, managed IT services for architect can help you get access to and training on specialised software, such as embodied carbon calculators and building performance simulation tools.
These tools help architects work out the environmental impact of their designs and make better choices about materials and building systems.
Strengthening Cybersecurity
John Sharkey and colleagues point out how important cybersecurity is becoming in the architectural industry. That’s why cybersecurity for architecture is non-negotiable. For example, from threat monitoring to data encryption. So, managed IT services for architecture ensure your firm’s digital assets—like BIM models and client data—are protected against breaches.
These providers often have dedicated cybersecurity experts who know all the latest threats and vulnerabilities. They can perform full security audits, set up top-notch security solutions, and monitor your security.
This kind of specialised expertise is often missing in architecture firms, where managed IT services can be a really valuable resource for strengthening their cybersecurity. By getting a trusted provider to take care of their cybersecurity, architecture firms can focus on their core design work while knowing their digital assets are safe from cyber threats.
Embracing the Cloud in Architecture
The AIA report shows there’s a growing trend towards using cloud technology in the architectural industry. The report says around three in five architectural firms are currently using cloud storage, with a hybrid setup being the most popular approach, combining shared servers with cloud hosting.
However, the report also shows that only a small number of firms have fully moved to the cloud. Larger firms with 100+ employees are leading the way in cloud adoption, with 72% having fully embraced cloud solutions.
This data shows that while the architectural industry sees the benefits of cloud computing, there are still hurdles to overcome before it’s fully adopted, particularly among smaller firms.
Managed IT service providers can help architecture firms of all sizes get over these hurdles by sharing their know-how in cloud migration and management. They can help figure out what the firm needs, suggest the right cloud solutions, and manage the transition smoothly.
Once you’re in the cloud, managed IT services can make sure your data is secure, give you ongoing support and help your team members work together, no matter where they are.
Essential Managed IT Services for Architects
There are at least five managed IT services that are essential for architecture:
- CAD/BIM software support
- Cybersecurity and compliance
- IT support
- Cloud services
- Strategic consulting
- Hardware optimization and procurement
- Training and support
But why are the above five things important? Let’s break it down.
John Sharkey and the team, in their report, have identified a few key areas where managed IT services can really help architects and architecture firms. The report shows how digital technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and cloud-based platforms are becoming more and more important.
AIA Client Survey found that 71% of clients want to see more BIM integration and detailed 3D modelling for visualising projects and getting stakeholders on the same page.
But this also means there are new risks, like cybersecurity threats. Fortunately, managed IT service providers can offer their specialised cybersecurity expertise, which helps protect sensitive project data and intellectual property.
The report also looks at how the National Construction Code (NCC) is getting more complex and how this could affect architects’ liability. Managed IT services for architect can help with this by giving architects strategic IT consulting and access to training resources that help them navigate the NCC regulations and compliance.
The report also looks at the difficulties architects face in managing client relationships and communicating project costs and progress effectively. Even shows that only 49% of architects feel confident in their ability to keep track of project changes effectively. Managed IT services can help architects get on board with project management software.
For the best cross-industry benefits, please refer to “What Is IT Managed Services & Benefits Your Company Will Get.”
Choosing the Best IT Services for Your Architecture Firm
The key to finding the right IT support for architecture is evaluating their expertise. That’s why you must look for providers offering IT consulting for many architectural aspects to align solutions with your firm’s growth goals. Let’s say you can ask them to discuss BIM software support or the best practices of cybersecurity for architecture.
The perfect IT partner will integrate complex software seamlessly while managing licences and updates efficiently, just like Interscale did for Ewert Leaf.
On top of that, cybersecurity is a big deal. So, the best IT partner will make sure your data is safe with multi-layered security solutions, including data encryption and automated backups.
Studio Tate saw the benefits of a managed IT approach, which helped them stay one step ahead of potential cybersecurity threats and reduce the risks of data breaches. And finally, it’s important to be able to scale up and down as needed, and to get support when you need it.
An effective IT partner like Interscale makes sure that the IT infrastructure keeps up with the firm’s project load, so there’s no need for major hardware investments when the company expands.
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In Closing
As the demands on AEC firms change, managed IT services for architecture is a key part of the picture. They help firms adapt easily, meet regulatory requirements and keep their operations secure and cost-effective. By teaming up with a reliable IT provider, you can gain a competitive edge and make sure your tech infrastructure is ready. Managed IT services for architects are not just a way to run your business better – they’re a must if you want to stay ahead of the game.
FAQ About Managed IT Services for Architecture
Under What Conditions do Architects Need Managed IT Services?
Architects usually need managed IT services when working with complex software systems, ensuring data is secure, or scaling up their IT infrastructure for larger projects.
How Can Managed IT Services Improve Project Collaboration for Architects?
Managed IT services boost project collaboration by setting up centralised communication platforms, which let teams share updates in real time and files seamlessly. This can help teams work better together, avoid mistakes and get projects done faster.
How Much do Managed IT Services Cost for Architects?
The cost of managed IT services depends on a few things, like the size of the company, how complex their IT needs are, and what specific services they need.
Managed IT services are priced on a per-user, per-device, or per-project basis. There are also providers that offer fixed-price packages that are designed to meet the specific needs of different industries.
