Although creative processes vary widely among professionals, some general aspects can be found in any design method. In general terms, we could say that the Architect's Journey through the Design Process consists of 3 stages: Inspiration, Research and Specification, and Construction. In all of them, the connection with materials and construction products is fundamental. After all, the ultimate objective of architects is to materialize their ideas and give shape to new environments that can withstand the test of time. To increase their knowledge and to make the most of their capabilities at every stage, architects search through various mediums for the best tools and references.
The following will unpack architects' behaviour throughout this creative journey and the different touchpoints with companies and manufacturers at every stage.
Stage 1: Inspiration
One of the main habits architects develop during their work routines is to look at other projects to find some references in terms of shapes, materials and products that could help them develop new and innovative ideas.
According to a survey made by ArchDaily, the majority of architects declared they search for inspiration and references on materials and products by visiting architecture websites, such as ArchDaily and by visiting Social Media Channels to see what their colleagues are working on.
At this stage, companies and manufacturers have the chance to be discovered by architects through brand placement on the channels most frequented by the professionals. Companies and manufacturers can showcase their products through display marketing. ArchDaily’s Billboard Banner and Halfpage Banner are great examples of ads that benefit from high exposure on the world’s most visited architecture website.
In terms of the Social Media Channels in which brands should be investing their time to connect with architects and promote their products, the efforts should be focused on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. By far, they are the preferred social networks for architects and designers due to their visually-driven content.
Stage 2: Research and Specification
During the research stage, when architects collect technical data on materials and products to choose the best solutions, professionals expect to find the information directly on manufacturers' websites or by visiting showrooms and reading online catalogues.
To gain visibility and stand out among competitors, engaging with architects through valuable content is key. Certain kinds of content can boost visibility, from how-to guides explaining the installation process of your product to case studies that showcase your material being used in different projects.
ArchDaily offers the opportunity to publish your original stories or to work on a tailor-made editorial article that will be written by ArchDaily's experts and featured in high visibility channels.
Once well informed about the different options available in the market, architects are able to start selecting the materials, products and installation techniques that will be used in the project. Through ArchDaily Catalogue, architects can find and specify high-quality materials, leading to superior projects.
As shown in the chart below, brands can be crucial to architects during this stage by displaying data sheets with technical information about their products along with high-resolution images, CAD and BIM files or PDF catalogues.
Your brand can opt for ArchDaily Membership so that all of this information can be displayed on a dedicated microsite that will also showcase your projects, products, and a lead-generating contact form with sample options. Whether your company is in the Construction Industry or dedicated to Interior Products, our team will be in charge of generating traffic to your brand’s microsite through targeted marketing activities.
Stage 3: Construction
Architects are now ready to start with the construction of their project, and they will probably need some guidance and assistance on how to install the chosen products and materials. In this stage, you have the chance to provide your clients with an excellent post-sale experience, in which you keep constant communication to help them in the process of using your products and be prepared in case they need more stock.
When completed, architects will now want to showcase their finished project to the world through ArchDaily. Once the project is submitted, if selected and published, it will become a design reference to other architects.
If all the touchpoints between the architects and the companies were handled correctly, then customers will become fans of your brand, providing the best marketing you can get.
If architects are happy with your service, they will be proud to mention your company in the publication that will serve as a “recommendation” for other professionals still in the Inspiration Stage.
