The AIACC Announces Next Assessment Day For Certified Development Strategist Program (SM)

The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) is now accepting applications for the Certified Development Strategist (CDS) program. Applications are due May 28. Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the next Assessment Day, which will be held in San Francisco on June 28.

Sacramento, CA -- May 9, 2002 -- The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) is now accepting applications for the Certified Development Strategist (CDS) program. Applications are due May 28. Qualified candidates will be invited to participate in the next Assessment Day, which will be held in San Francisco on June 28. The CDS designation signifies a comprehensive proficiency in all aspects of the development process, including strategic vision, program development, real estate, funding, design and construction. The program was launched earlier this year to recognize the global role that architects play in todays development process and to offer a credentialed benchmark for those architects that are already serving in this capacity.

The new application forms are now available online at the CDS Web site www.developmentstrategist.org. The page Become a CDS" has a link to the application, which can be filled out directly from the applicants computer. Copies can also be requested by mail. The forms have been streamlined and more space has been allotted to provide narrative responses.

Were here to serve our members and bring greater value to their practices," said Nicki Dennis Stephens, AIACC Director of Member and Component Resources. We realize our members are busy and we want the process to be as easy as possible."

In order to be certified as a development strategist, architects must have at least five years of registered architectural experience, and three years of experience relevant to the CDS role. Once this has been established, the architect will participate in a competency based assessment process that will allow the architect to show a broad understanding and competency in over 50 specific skills that relate to all entities involved in the development process.

The assessment includes a portfolio review and an oral interview that includes a review of the architects knowledge, experience and skills in client services, architectural and engineering services, construction services and the core skills that tie the development team together. Future assessment days will be held in Los Angeles (August) and San Jose (November) with application deadlines of June 17 and September 17 respectively.

The costs associated with the certification program include a non-refundable $275 application fee, a $375 non-refundable assessment fee and a $100 certificate fee.
Once the architect has successfully completed the process, he or she is entitled to use the CDS designation, will have the option of placing their portfolio on the AIACC Certified Development Strategist Web site, and will be included in the on-line certification directory.

For more information on the AIACC Certification Program for Development Strategists, contact the AIACC at 916-448-9082, or visit www.developmentstrategist.org

The American Institute of Architects, California Council (AIACC) represents the interests of 10,000 architects and allied members in the state of California. The AIACCs mission is to support architects as they work to improve the quality of life for all Californians by creating more livable and transit oriented communities, sustainable designs and quality work environments.

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