Blog

Throughout the year I am sharing updates on how the Architecture and Interior Design industry is responding to the new workplace normal.  All virtual?  All hands on deck?  Follow here and find out.

Constructive criticism is often uncomfortable to hear. But, in architecture and design, those who accept feedback with humility are better able to learn on the job and improve their skills over time. These tips can help you capitalize on constructive criticism in the workplace. Pause and Listen Most professionals experience […]

The ongoing pandemic has created challenges and roadblocks for many professionals in design and architecture. Some have unexpectedly lost jobs. Some have had to adjust to working from home for the first time. Others have had to put schooling on pause. One bright side in all of this is that […]

As vaccines start and a possible pandemic end in sight, many are wondering what the future of architecture will look like. Although some major investments and design jobs have been put on hold, the demand for some projects continues to grow. City leaders, health experts and architects are all coming […]

The recruiting and onboarding process should always be a priority regardless of your industry or your firm’s size. As firms start to rebuild or grow, the battle for talent is resuming. It is often a knee-jerk reaction to think that money is the key to finding the right talent. In […]

There are always going to be external variables that can get in the way of achieving your professional goals. Even though some of these things might slow you down, it’s important that you don’t let them stop you. It’s usually our own self-sabotaging behaviors that tend to hold us back. […]

From political opinions to differences in how to respond publicly to the pandemic, division seems to be growing in our nation. Yet, this isn’t the first time that our country has experienced significant differences. With such a wide range of opinions so readily expressible through social media and other channels, […]

As we start 2021, it is clear we are entering a new era. COVID-19 has affected every sector of society and caused us to rethink everything from architecture to public safety to city planning. Here are some ways designers are reimagining cities, offices, and homes in this new era. Emphasis […]

I am making new habits in the new year.  Things have changed at a fundamental level in the United States and in the world.  This year I am using the momentum of these changes to do better.  This year I am not setting any New Year’s resolutions.  Instead I am […]

Adapting new habits is always a challenge, but it is a necessary step in self-improvement and reaching important personal and professional goals. After the stress of last year, most of us are looking to 2021 with hope and are ready to make positive changes in our lives. Here are some […]

The Strategy Workbook idea came from an event several years ago.  While planning I came across a task I had created that read “Cut and Paste New Strategy”. I was mortified. Was this what I thought of DBI, the firm I had grown from nothing since 2009? Was this what […]

Attracting top talent will be critical as firms recover in 2021. Having a hiring process that is focused on a positive candidate experience is THE best way for firms to win top talent. Although a positive candidate experience should always be a priority, many hiring managers are spread too thin […]

It is the end of the year and if you are like most you are setting goals for next year and beyond. It’s important to set meaningful career goals but be realistic. It is important to develop goals you can achieve. Doing so can increase job satisfaction, improve your quality […]

In architecture and design, internal career mobility can set your firm apart. These days, employees expect the firms they work for to provide them with opportunities for career development and advancement. By providing opportunities for internal career mobility you can improve employee satisfaction and retention. Here are some of the […]

The holiday season is the perfect time of year to show your team how much you appreciate them, especially this year when we can all use some extra cheer. Your team has worked hard all year under abnormally stressful conditions. Here are some ideas to show gratitude for your employees […]

This Design+Dialogue is a simple happy holiday message. All of us at DBI wish all of you and yours a great holiday season and a happy new year.

COVID-19 has been the catalyst for many changes in architecture and design. Many designers have suddenly found themselves in a position where they are now working remotely. Meanwhile, office buildings around the country have been vacant for months. In light of the pandemic, architects have had to think creatively about […]

Succession Planning is THE biggest undertaking a design firm owner will go through during the life of their firm. It takes thoughtful planning and years to nurture and execute. The firm owners I talk with find it all too daunting and never get started. In this video I share a […]

Many people think it is difficult to find work in the art and design fields, but there are many benefits you can reap by pursuing a career in architecture, especially since the real estate market in the United States is better than it has been in a long time. Here […]

For Thanksgiving, DBI presents an atheistic discussion on turkey stuffing.