The Architectural Experience Program® (AXP®) is an essential element on the path to licensure designed to provide candidates with the opportunity to gain and document real-world experience needed to become an architect. As you progress through the AXP, you’ll develop competency in architectural practice areas related to health, safety, and welfare.

The AXP identifies 96 key tasks you should be able to perform competently at the point of licensure and is designed to span the phases of an early career in architecture. The tasks are spread across six practice-based areas. Each area aligns with an ARE 5.0 division, allowing you to connect your real-world experience to your exam preparation. While some tasks can be completed earlier in your career, others may require skills and experience developed over time.

Practice Management is one of the six practice-based areas within the AXP, focusing on the daily activities and foundational skills required to run an architecture firm.

Overview

Through tasks in this area, you’ll gain experience managing a business, marketing a firm, securing projects, working with clients, and sustaining a positive and professional work environment. 

It is not uncommon for some of these tasks to occur later in your AXP experience. It is important to engage your supervisor and firm to create a plan to ensure you earn the meaningful experience needed to meet your AXP requirements.

Requirements

To complete Practice Management, you’ll need to document 160 hours of experience completing the following tasks:

  • Adhere to ethical standards and codes of professional conduct
  • Develop professional and leadership skills within firm
  • Comply with laws and regulations governing the practice of architecture
  • Prepare proposals for services in response to client requirements
  • Prepare final procurement and contract documents
  • Participate in community activities that may provide opportunities or design facilities that reflect community needs
  • Understand the implications of project delivery technologies
  • Develop procedures for responding to contractor requests (Requests for Information)
  • Participate in professional development activities that offer exchanges with other design professionals
  • Prepare marketing documents that accurately communicate firm's experience and capabilities
  • Understand the implications of policies and procedures to ensure supervision of design work by an architect in responsible charge/control
  • Establish procedures for documenting project decisions
  • Maintain a positive work environment within a firm that facilitates cooperation, teamwork, and staff morale
  • Develop procedures for responding to changes in project scope
  • Develop and maintain effective and productive relationships with clients
  • Establish procedures to process documentation during contract

As you develop a plan to achieve all the tasks required in the AXP, it’s important to work with your supervisor to create a plan for getting exposure to various opportunities. As you and your supervisor develop a meaningful relationship supporting your journey, check out the AXP Candidate and Supervisor Expectations document to establish shared expectations.

For more detailed information about the AXP and the six practice-based areas, check out the AXP Guidelines and our blog for the latest updates.