4 Types of Management Statements for Architects

Why Position Statements Trump Mission, Vision + Value Statements for Leading Architectural Firms

Why Management Statements Matter

Many people think that developing these kinds of statements is a waste of time. What skeptics don’t understand is that statements like these are less about the outcome—though what is developed is critical—and more about the process.

When a group engages in dialogue, brainstorming, ideating and word-smithing statements like these, clarity is achieved. Differences of opinion often silently impacting the way a firm is run come to light and through discussion decisions and commitments are made, understanding of common goals is more deeply rooted, and a vision for the future is mapped out.

When well facilitated, the development of management statements enhances a company’s focus, communication, and collaboration and creates a common understanding and vision for accomplishing the work the firm is in business to deliver.

To provide a context for why a position statement is the most critical for an architectural firm, let’s look at several types of statements, what they are used for, when a firm might consider developing each, and why position statements are the most important of all.