Criteria for the selection of architects by first-time clients

Purpose: The purpose of the research is to answer two questions: Which factors do individual clients consider when selecting an architect for the first time? How does the importance attached to these factors vary with the procurement method? Design approach: These questions are answered in a questionnaire survey of commissioned architects for recent clients of architects who have residential projects in Lagos, Nigeria. The respondents were asked to rate the importance of certain criteria in their selection of architects. Findings: A principal component analysis of the variables investigated reveal that the factors that define the selection criteria used by these clients are responsiveness, perceived professional competence, personality, and prominence of the architect. Other factors are acquaintance with the architect and the budget of the client. The most important factor for each procurement method was identified. Research limitations/ implications: Only the factors within the control of the architect are considered in this study. Practical implications: The study identified areas that are most important to clients, which architects could improve on to enhance their chances of reaping from the new housing market. Originality/ value: The study contributes to the body on knowledge on service provider selection by its identification of criteria that private clients consider when they select architect for the first time.