We have been unpacking a research project with the NACBA to better understand the impact of building programs on churches and what we could learn to assist churches in future building programs. For me, the most compelling part of the research came from the answers to the last two questions. They had the opportunity to write in answers to “In the next project, what would you definitely do differently” and “In the next project, what would you definitely do the same”.
Some of the answers struck me funny:
• “Not force me to answer stupid questions.”
• “Have our Senior Pastor go on vacation while we build the buildings.”
Some were instructional:
• “Remove the church’s building team completely from the future building projects. They don’t understand the purpose and ministry of the church.”
• “(Don’t) cut corners to save money…either do it right or don’t do it.” and “Not let the vision exceed our ability to service the financing.”
• “Never try to be the GC (general contractor) on a project.”
Some raised more questions than they answered:
• “I would like to use a different architect, but cannot do so for political reasons.”
• “We have a new pastor, so nothing will be done the same way.”
And in some you could feel their pain:
• “We are not building again.”
• To the question “what would you definitely do differently” – “everything.”
• To the question “what would you definitely do the same” – “nothing.”
We grouped the write in answers and found that most fell into these three groups: 1) Design and Construction Partners 2) Communication and Vision Casting 3) Raising Funds. The number one group, by far, had to do with the decisions regarding the design and construction professionals and how they work together (i.e. project delivery method). Of that group 37.9% wanted the same architect and/or contractor and/or team, and another 27.9% wanted a different architect and/or contractor and/or team. The number of answers referencing the same team, different team or design/build (33.3% total) would indicate that where there was good collaboration, they wanted that to continue. However, where there was not good collaboration, they didn’t want to see that happen again. It was clear from the research that when it comes to developing needed ministry facilities:
Who you select as your design and construction professionals and how they work together is likely the most important decision you will make.
(For a copy of the full article please email - info@cogun.com)
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