Raba argues that design is a relationship business and failure to establish personal relationships with clients adds to the mistaken impression that design is just a commodity. Raba isn't the only one who worries about the impact of technology on client relationships. But as far as dealing with customers, we are not in the business of selling books. You can't hide behind technology and stay in business. Raba and Moynihan are right.
Technology is a valuable and necessary part of the design business.
But it is no substitute for personal contact. But if your business is to thrive, step out from behind the terminal once and a while and get to know your clients. Clearing the Air on the Corps T he Corps of Engineers recently has been accused of possibly cooking the books on an Upper Mississippi lock improvement study. This has focused the spotlight, if not the mistrust and ire, on some important agencies and individuals. On Feb. 28, a federal Office of Special Counsel found that Corps officials may have violated federal laws and regulations and wasted funds on the lock study.