At GSM we want to help you find the best architect for your project. Ask the following questions to find the best possible solution.

Ask the Right Questions:

• 1. How do we get started with our Jail Project?
  • Needs Assessment Study, Financial analysis, master planning, site analysis - accomplished through a comprehensive and substantive Feasibility Study.
• 2. What benchmarks do we use to compare Architectural firms?
  • Experience.
  • Ability to bring together the key ingredients such as politics, financial advisors and underwriter, CM and engineers.
  • A good Jail design that answers the following questions: how many square feet per bed, average cost per square foot, change order ratios and how do you stay within budget.

• 3. How can we finance our Jail Project?
  • We participate in public meetings, etc.
• 4. How would your firm design a Jail that would meet Our Jail needs?
  • Take into consideration juveniles, females, swing cells, linear, radial/podular and how it affects staffing and operational costs.
• 5. What steps does your firm take to stay within our budget?
  • Architect's advisement on choice of GC or CM for project
  • Quality of documents
  • Work shops
  • Bringing together resources and needs before the construction begins to avoid change orders and budget overruns
  • Errors and omissions
• 6. How does your firm's design and specified building materials ensure a secure Jail?
  • Are Proven Detention Equipment Contractor and their including security cameras, locks, windows, cells and pods.
  • The information technology in these buildings is critical
  • The building warranties guarantees staying within budget
• 7. Discuss your firm's approach to evaluation and training for staff and post-occupancy success.
  • Working with training manual for operations and procedures, offering to provide systematic on-site support in use of building and smooth operation.
• 8. What philosophy and style does your firm's practice to ensure a successful project?
  • Financial, Staffing & Operations, Bricks & Mortar, FF&E.
  • Problem solving not monument building.