PDD: Project Development and Documentation

Architect Exam Podcast - ARE 5.0 EXAM PREP

Find resources on construction documents, building systems, and design requirements. This category covers the Project Development & Documentation section of ARE 5.0. Topics include building system coordination, construction methods, technical drawings, and code rules during design and documentation. Materials focus on choosing materials, detailing, writing specifications, and working with consultants to create clear construction plans.

Quality Assurance vs Quality Control QA vs QC: One Prevents Problems, One Finds Them

QA vs QC: One Prevents Problems and The Other Finds Them

Mastering the QA vs QC relationship is crucial for architectural project success. Understanding when to apply quality assurance versus quality control can dramatically reduce errors, improve workflow efficiency, and prevent costly mistakes. This comprehensive guide...

Construction Types

Construction Types: The 5 Essential Building Classifications

Construction types are fundamental building classifications that determine everything from fire resistance to allowable heights and materials. This guide breaks down all five types of building construction as defined in the International Building Code (IBC),...

occupancy classifications

Understanding Occupancy Classifications: A Complete Guide for ARE Candidates

Mastering occupancy classifications are essential for ARE success. This guide breaks down IBC's classification system and shows how it affects design, code compliance, and safety. Learn to confidently classify any project and avoid costly compliance...

Construction Specification Types

Construction Specification Types Made Simple: A Complete Guide

This guide demystifies all major construction specification types and helps you understand when and how to use each one. These distinctions will make you more effective at writing, interpreting, enforcing, and managing construction documents....

Drawings vs. Specifications

Drawings vs. Specifications: Why “Specs Always Win” Is Dead Wrong

This guide debunks the common misconception about document precedence and explains how drawings vs specifications work together as complementary contract documents. Understanding this drawings vs specifications relationship is crucial for both ARE success and professional...

Construction Specifications

Understanding Specifications: An Introduction for ARE/CDT Candidates

Have you ever wondered why architectural specifications matter so much? Or maybe you've been avoiding them altogether because they seem intimidating or boring? I get it. Specs aren't exactly the most exciting part of architecture...

Construction contingency

Construction Contingency: Planning for the Project’s Unknown

In the world of architecture and construction, one truth remains constant: something will always go wrong. No matter how meticulously you plan, how carefully you design, or how thoroughly you prepare your construction documents, the...

The Client Factor: Public vs Private Architecture Projects

This podcast is also available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts One question can determine the entire course of an architecture project: Is the client public or private? This seemingly simple distinction fundamentally transforms every...