The UK construction industry continues to suffer the effects of the economic downturn. Architectural practices are often the first to feel the effect, and the last to recover.

Faced with the unfortunate reality of diminishing workloads and fee cutting, practices need to adapt to the changing market. This one-day event invites you to reflect on your own business, identify possible changes and how to approach these changes positively.

• The importance of adaption and change in the current climate (Kevin Schofield, IEI Consulting).
• Management for results: getting the most out of your staff - Understand how to get the best out of your people, measure performance, address poor performance effectively and identify a plan of action. (Natalie Saunders, Pharos Legal).
• How to kick-start your practice and win new work - An interactive workshop discussing analysis of your existing practice and creating a new business plan, to help you think like an entrepreneur and take control of your business. (Lucy Mori, KL Mori, Business Consulting for Architects)
• Marketing and PR – The essential tool-kit - What identifies you from your competitors? Understand who your target audiences are and how to reach them, and prepare an effective PR and marketing action plan. (Amanda Reekie, Stratton and Reekie).
• A to Z of starting practice in the recession - Evans Vettori Architects have their origins in the depths of the early 90s recession. This illustrated talk includes anecdotes, pitfalls and tips on how to start up and survive in the midst of a recession. (Robert Evans, Evans Vettori Architects).