Value Statements are made up of a series of ideas that summarize the moral and ethical code by which an architectural firm expects its employees to operate. It sets the framework for clarifying what is acceptable behavior and what is not in the workplace.
Does a client consider an architect’s Value Statements in the selection process? Nope. I’ve yet to see an RFP that asks for a description of your firm’s values. (If anyone has one, please send it–I’d love to be able to reference it.) But even if they did, it tends not to be a make or break factor in selection.
Values Statements
What are they?
An inwardly-focused list of values the firm is committed to upholding in the workplace. Identifies moral and ethical guidelines for behavior.
What’s it used for?
To create a common understanding of ground rules for acceptable behavior in the workplace. To build consensus around what’s okay and what’s not okay at work.
Does it matter to clients?
Not something generally shared with clients.
When is it recommended?
If an ethical problem has arisen internally, or in a client engagement. When problems with behaviors get out of hand (lateness, disrespect, arguing).
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