204: ‘How to Future-Proof Your Architecture Practice’, with Dave Gilmore
A conversation with Dave Gilmore disrupting traditional architecture business models, embracing digital transformation, and fostering psychological safety in leadership to navigate uncertainty and prepare for future challenges in the AEC industry.
Dave Gilmore joins the podcast to talk about the urgent need for firms to proactively disrupt themselves before they’re disrupted by external forces, and why transformation is first and foremost a leadership challenge, not a technology one. Dave shares insights on the limits of the production mindset, the dangers of outsourcing strategic thinking, and the critical role that psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and entrepreneurial curiosity play in shaping sustainable, future-ready practices. This is a no-holds-barred candid conversation that calls firm leaders to think differently, act decisively, and embrace a culture of continuous change.
Episode Links:
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Connect with the Guest
- DesignIntelligence Official Website
- DesignIntelligence on LinkedIn
- This is DesignIntelligence Podcast on Apple Podcasts
Books and Philosophies
- Clayton Christensen’s The Innovator’s Dilemma
- Wikipedia Overview
- Amazon
- A foundational work explaining why successful companies fail to adapt to disruptive innovations; a central theme in this episode.
- Ray Dalio’s Principles
- Amazon
- Covers personal and organizational decision-making frameworks, often echoed in leadership transitions discussed in AEC firms.
- Peter Drucker’s Managing for Results
- Amazon
- Timeless insights on strategy and innovation in business management, relevant to rethinking firm operations.
- Ove Arup
Events and Networks
- Design Futures Council
- Official Website
- A network Dave Gilmore is closely associated with, focused on innovation and leadership in AEC.
- KA Connect by Knowledge Architecture
- KA Connect
- Annual gathering on knowledge management in the AEC industry. Highly aligned with Dave’s themes of firm transformation.
Psychology and Personal Development
- Jim Collins’ Good to Great
- Amazon Link
- A must-read for firm leaders looking to understand the discipline required to make the leap from average to exceptional.
- Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast and Slow
- Wikipedia Overview
- Amazon
- For deeper understanding of how we think, decide, and lead under uncertainty.
- Carol Dweck’s Mindset
- Amazon Link
- Emphasizes the importance of cultivating a growth mindset. Especially relevant for firm leaders navigating change.
About Dave Gilmore:
Dave Gilmore is the President & Chief Executive Officer of DesignIntelligence. He is a frequent university lecturer as well as corporate speaker across the Built Environment industry. His work involves frequent interaction with leadership teams and governance entities regarding leadership transition, business sustainability, and organizational resilience. He serves as a strategic advisor to many of the largest and most successful Built Environment industry firms in the United States. Dave is also the Founder and Managing Director of The Tricord Group, a boutique equity fund with partners in Atlanta, Boston, and Minneapolis.
