Collaboration is an essential part of architectural practice. To realize the complexities of built work, architects and designers must work with one another and a slew of other disciplines to ensure a successful final result. But what is the nature of this collaborative effort? What are the mechanics of it? These two allegorical essays, previously published on Archinect explore two aspects of teamwork and collaboration in architecture.

Steve Jobs and The Collaborative Framework

Steve Jobs and The Collaborative Framework looks at the conception of the Apple Store and how Steve Jobs relied on the insights and disagreements of his colleagues to manifest his ambitious vision. The extracted lesson revolves around the importance of conversation in the creative endeavor and the value of team members who will tell you the truth.

The Collaborative Team Dynamic

The Collaborative Team Dynamic dive into the inner workings of a fictional group of thieves — Danny Ocean's "Eleven." The piece dissects the team dynamics that made this group successful in the film, looking at the various specialists involved and how they were directed under an intricate vision and plan. The lessons of the film is tied to behavioral research to propose some intriguing points of thought for the committed collaborator.

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Collaboration can be tricky in our virtual landscape, but the right mindset and creativity can change a salty circumstance into a sweeter one.