ABSTRACT
Futurology is a dangerous pastime. The linear model of the architect as a construction professional, including the pattern of architectural education – the foundation of a person's knowledge and skills as a design professional and the Royal Institute of British Architects Outline Plan of Work – the basic model of design management, was developed in the 1960s. Regardless of the changing face of the professions, society’s unending need to create and modify the environment will mean that the particular skills of the architect will continue to be required. How architects of the future deploy their design talents will depend on their understanding of the complex legal framework within which they operate and their ability to manage the design process adapting to the changing procurement environment. In everyday architectural practice, people will require a deep knowledge of current law, regulations and procedures, all of which are inextricably part of being a successful architect.
