Our course covers the essential topics of ExAC Section 4, aligning with the official General and Specific Objectives to ensure comprehensive preparation.

Bidding and Contract Negotiations

This theme covers comparing different types of construction project delivery methods (such as Stipulated Price, Construction Management, Design-Build, P3, Project Management, and Integrated Project Delivery) and understanding their characteristics and suitability.[2, 8, 9] You will learn to identify various CCDC contract types (e.g., CCDC 2, 3, 4, 5A/5B, 11), explain their purpose as industry standards, and describe the responsibilities of the Owner, Contractor, and Architect within these agreements.[2, 8, 9] The section also details the procedures for awarding a construction contract, including the roles of each party, the function of local construction associations and bid depositories, different awarding methods (open, invited, direct negotiation), and the phases and required documentation of a typical bidding process.[8, 9] Finally, you will learn to evaluate bid submissions for conformity and understand the architect's responsibility in making recommendations for contract award.[8, 9]

Construction Phase – Office Functions

This theme focuses on the administrative and contractual responsibilities managed from the architect's office during construction. It covers understanding the roles of the architect (as owner's representative, contract administrator, payment certifier, and initial decision-maker), client/owner, and contractor in contract administration.[2, 8] You will learn about key office tasks throughout the construction phase, including pre-construction meetings, processing submittals (shop drawings, samples), responding to Requests for Information (RFIs), issuing change documentation (Change Orders, Change Directives), administering Certificates for Payment (including holdback and provincial lien legislation, e.g., BC percentages [9]), and managing substantial and final completion.[2, 8, 9] The section also details the documentation required from the contractor before construction begins and the specific forms needed to effect changes to the contract.[2, 8]

Construction Phase – Field Functions

This theme focuses on the architect's responsibilities and activities conducted directly on the construction site. It clarifies the roles of the architect (primarily observational, not responsible for means, methods, or safety), client/owner, contractor, and inspection/testing firms in construction contract administration.[2, 8] You will learn about various field functions, such as conducting regular site visits, performing field reviews, monitoring construction progress, identifying non-conforming work, issuing site instructions, and participating in site meetings.[2, 8] The section also explains contractual terms related to field review, takeover procedures (substantial and total completion), and issues concerning hazardous materials and toxic substances on site.[2, 8]

Management of the Project and Business/Practice Management

This theme encapsulates the broader principles of project oversight and the operational aspects of running an architectural practice. It covers understanding the project management process (initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, closing), the roles of project team members (project manager, in-house, and external resources), and the essential contents of a project file.[2, 8] You will learn about the main components of a work plan, elements of effective team management (communications, objectives), and the quality assurance process for a project.[2, 8] The section also explains various methods used to calculate the architect's fees (percentage, lump sum, time-based, unit cost).[8] Additionally, it delves into broader business/practice management topics, including different architectural firm structures (Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships, Corporations [9]), financial management, risk management (professional liability insurance, contracts, Alternative Dispute Resolution methods like Mediation and Arbitration [9]), ethical and legal responsibilities, and fundamentals of marketing and business development.[8, 9]

• Standard Construction Document CCDC: Specifically CCDC 2, 24, and others as available. These documents are central to understanding contracts and construction administration in Canada.  

• Canadian Standard Form of Contract for Architectural Services: Document Six, 2017, and Document 9, from the RAIC. These are directly relevant to the architect's contractual agreements. 

• Canadian Handbook of Practice for Architects (CHOP): Latest edition from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC). This comprehensive handbook covers various aspects of professional practice, project delivery, and management.   

• Mastering the Business of Architecture: 2004, by Stone, D., Ontario Association of Architects. This resource is highly relevant to the "Business/Practice Management" theme.   

• The Internship in Architecture Program: 2012, 3rd edition, by Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities. This document outlines the experience requirements and competencies for licensure. 

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   ExAC Website: Always refer to the official ExAC website for their comprehensive list of references and resources, as it is the primary source for exam information  

• Building Construction Illustrated: Latest edition by Ching, F. and Adams C., John Wiley & Sons. This provides foundational knowledge on building systems and construction methods, which supports understanding construction phase functions.