#IAMINARCHITECTURE
Technical University of Munich,
Architectural Design Thinking
#IAMINARCHITECTURE is an innovative start-up concept developed during the Architectural Design Thinking course at TUM Venture Lab, aimed at addressing the communication gaps within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. The project envisioned a comprehensive platform fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development across the AEC community. By integrating features such as forums for open discussions, job boards, company reviews, and a curated learning hub, the platform bridges the disconnect between students, professionals, and firms. The process involved analyzing industry challenges, leveraging entrepreneurial strategies, and designing a scalable solution to promote innovation, transparency, and interconnectedness in the built environment.
#IAMINARCHITECTURE is a platform designed to address the critical issue of lack of communication within the architectural community. This lack of communication and connection is considered to be among the strongest hindrances for innovation in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) field, which is currently an inefficient field, in need of urgent acceleration in innovation, digitalization, and automatization.
Context Analysis
The architectural profession faces a concerning trend: architects are leaving the field. This can be attributed to several factors, including the lack of communication, the gap between hard and soft skills, and the wicked nature of architecture as a discipline situated between art and engineering with no exact definition. The primary focus of this project is to address the overarching problem “Architects don’t communicate.”.
Currently, existing communication channels such as small Facebook and WhatsApp groups, as well as local chambers, are insufficient in fostering meaningful dialogue and innovation within the AEC sector. Conversely, platforms like "Out of Architecture" promote negativity towards the profession, exacerbating the issue. To counteract this, #IAMINARCHITECTURE aims to create a platform that facilitates effective communication among AEC Fellows to foster a sense of community and collaboration.
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Vision and Impact
#IAMINARCHITECTURE envisions a vibrant, interconnected and innovative AEC community fostered through effective communication and collaboration. By bridging these gaps, the platform aims to empower architects to share knowledge, experiences, and challenges as well as enhance professional development by providing learning resources and fostering peer-to-peer mentorship.
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​Concept
#IAMINARCHITECTURE will function as a comprehensive online platform offering a multitude of features: Forum as a space for open discussions, knowledge sharing, and peer-to-peer support; Learning Hub as a curated collection of educational resources uploaded by AEC Fellows; Jobs, Company Rankings and Salary Information to ensure transparency into company culture, work environment, and compensation as well as curating internship and work opportunities; AEC News Feed to stay updated on industry news, trends, and events and facilitation Local Meet-ups and Events to foster in-person networking and relationship building.
Target Users and Benefits
The platform caters to various user groups within the AEC industry, each benefiting in unique ways:
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Students: Connect with peers, access job opportunities, and stay informed about the industry.
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Chambers: Increase visibility, engage in discussions, and amplify their reach.
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AEC Professionals: Network with colleagues, find better career opportunities, and stay updated on industry trends.
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AEC Firms: Access a wider talent pool, promote their workplace culture, and connect with potential clients.
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Sponsors: Gain brand recognition, engage with the community, and conduct targeted marketing.
Prototype Idea
The initial prototype will focus on core functionalities like the forum, job board, and news feed. A user-friendly interface will enable seamless navigation and interaction. As the platform gains traction, additional features and functionalities can be integrated based on user feedback and evolving needs.
Conclusion
#IAMINARCHITECTURE has the potential to revolutionize the architectural landscape by fostering a collaborative, informed, and empowered community. By bridging communication gaps and promoting knowledge exchange, the platform can pave the way for a more vibrant, innovative, and impactful AEC sector.