Lights, Camera, Construct

Crafting your AEC project award submission

By Laura Reishus and Dora Hughes

n the realm of architecture, engineering, and construction, or AEC, every project tells a story. From the initial concept to the final ribbon cutting, each step is a chapter in a narrative of innovation, creativity, and problem-solving.

Similar to a captivating movie, the progression of an AEC project can be crafted into an award-winning entry that captivates the judges and leaves a profound impression. Both require careful planning, attention to detail, impactful photography, and a compelling narrative arc that captivates the audience.

Just like a cinematic experience that guides audiences through highs and lows, your award submission should transport judges into the world of your project, immersing them in the scope, its challenges, triumphs, and ultimate success. So, grab your popcorn and let’s dive into the process of turning your project into a blockbuster.

Every great movie starts with a strong foundation, setting the stage for what’s to come. Submitting an AEC award entry is like pursuing a large project. Ideally, right after you sign the project contract, you are aware of the many challenges that you’ll face and will position your firm strategically to solve your client’s mission.

Just like staging a plot to a movie, your project needs a compelling backstory to engage the judges from the start and clearly define the narrative. What are the key challenges your client faces? Did you experience any major unexpected challenges—and how did you deal with them? They are the hero of your story and your firm’s guide. You can transform these challenges into a great story that will enhance your project summary. Keep in mind, judges receive hundreds—sometimes thousands—of submissions, and if you don’t open strong in the first couple of sentences you might get tossed to the side and miss your opportunity for a blockbuster hit.

In the middle of any gripping movie, there’s a twist or turn that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. Similarly, your award submission should highlight the innovative aspects of your project that make it stand out from the crowd. Whether it’s cutting-edge technology, sustainable design principles, zero-loss time, or unique construction techniques, these elements add depth and intrigue to your narrative.

Similar to a well-crafted movie scene that conveys emotion, atmosphere, and storytelling, project photography plays a pivotal role in showcasing the design, craftsmanship, innovation, and impact. Project photography freezes a moment in time, closely resembling how a cinematic scene immerses viewers in the world of the story. Whether it’s capturing the grandeur of a skyscraper at sunset or the intimacy of a carefully designed interior space, project photography and movie cinema scenes share the common goal of conveying a narrative that resonates with viewers long after the image fades or the scene ends.

Every movie builds to a climactic moment where all the pieces come together. Similarly, your award submission should emphasize the achievements and successes of your project. This is the time to showcase tangible results, such as meeting budget and schedule targets, goal zero achieved—no lost time accidents, exceeding client expectations, or receiving recognition from industry peers. Just as a hero’s actions save the day, your project’s achievements should imprint a lasting impression on the judges.

Your design and presentation of your award submission is equally crucial in conveying the significance of your project. Just as the meticulous attention to detail in cinematography enriches a film’s narrative, the layout, aesthetics, and clarity of your submission can enhance the story you’re telling about your AEC project. A well-designed submission not only captures attention but also communicates professionalism, creativity, and meticulousness, reflecting the same level of care and precision invested in the project itself. Leave the judges feeling inspired and eager to delve deeper into the legacy of your project.

In conclusion, just like a well-crafted movie, an award-winning AEC project submission requires a combination of creativity, innovation, and storytelling prowess. By following the plotline of a blockbuster film—from setting up the story to delivering a satisfying resolution—you can create a submission that not only impresses the judges but leaves a lasting impact on the AEC industry. So, grab your metaphorical popcorn, and let the award-winning journey begin!