H&T -

I was just returning from a meeting and heard a radio adverstisement that I had to share. The add was from General Steel Co. and they were selling design services to the public for buildings at lower cost and half the construction time. They offered a range of exterior finishes from stucco to brick to metal panels. What they never mentioned was the fact that they are a metal building company selling proprietary metal buildings which I would have no objection to. What they were selling was architecture and engineering services with no mention of these professionals. I "googled" them and actually got a different company. They seemed to be selling the same thing. This quote is from Steel Co. website, www.steelcobuildings.net:

"No matter the size of the project we believe that each and every SteelCo building should be unique not only in appearance, but also in function. Often, individuals will come to us with their specific requests and inspirations and we are able to work with them without additional help. But on occasion, professional architects and engineers are needed to assist on a project. SteelCo works with architects who have an extensive knowledge of steel structures and offer complete services at a much lower price than you might find locally. This allows you to save a significant amount of money that could be used elsewhere, whether back into your pocket or on stunning extras for your building."

This is another example of how architects are valued within some parts of the industry.