The
Elder Group's client success strategies and success
stories and Interviews
Today
we are happy to speak with Barry Poskanzer, Senior Partner
of Poskanzer Skott Architects. Poskanzer Skott Architects
has many years of experience in planning, design and
construction of a wide range of projects, from large-scale
master planning to new construction, adaptive reuse,
interior architecture, retrofit and restoration. The
scope of their award-winning work encompasses corporate,
medical and healthcare facilities, retail, residential
and historic preservation projects.
Why
are so many companies saying WOW after they start doing
business with you?
I
think they're impressed with the energy and enthusiasm
generated by our team and our ability to come up with
innovative designs that are a direct response to their
needs. They particularly appreciate the hands-on involvement
of the principals. Insight and understanding of our
clients' projects instill great confidence - they know
they've come to the right firm.
What
do you attribute your success?
Our
bright, hardworking and loyal staff and the long-standing
and trusting relationship I have with my partner, Larry
Skott. He and I are both involved in every project and
our engagement and genuine enjoyment contributes to
what we do. We complement each others' strengths and
balance the necessary skills it takes to manage a successful
architecture firm.
How
do you find your opportunities?
Our
normal business development is through outreach and
word of mouth, especially from repeat clients and their
recommendations to friends and colleagues. In addition,
it's important to keep abreast of the changing construction
environment, real estate and market trends and the opportunities
they present.
How
does your internal staff function?
We
function as a team in a very relaxed, familial atmosphere.
We challenge one another in an ongoing attempt to develop
the best ideas for our clients' needs.
How
do you promote your business?
Working
on various municipal, residential, corporate and medical
projects has made us well known in the area. We have
a strong presence in the community and support local
organizations. Of course we do some advertising and
public relations in targeted markets. But the most important
promotion is our track record of successful projects
and word of mouth from satisfied clients
Where do you see your business as a whole in 10 years?
I'm
generally skeptical of ten year projections but for
the next five years I see us continuing to grow incrementally
and expand into new markets.
What are some of the challenges you face as a business
owner and how do you rise above them?
The
biggest challenge is continuing to provide excellent
service for our clients in these difficult times. Next,
would be generating new clients and interesting projects.
In addition, we carefully monitor staff size and our
production style to adapt to changing conditions.
What
sets your company apart from other architecture firms?
It
has to be creativity and personal service as well as
our energy and enthusiasm. Our sophisticated understanding
of the real estate/construction environment and the
cross pollination of ideas from our wide variety of
projects is unique. Though most of our projects are
"within lunch hour" of the office and centered
in the Mid-Atlantic region we are also involved in national
and global work.
Can
you tell us a success story about one of your clients
We'd
like to think each project is a success for our clients
- that it was completed on budget, on time and met their
requirements. The validation is when they call back.
Our success is measured by repeat clients and their
recommendations.
Barry
Poskanzer, Senior Partner, Poskanzer Skott Architects
Office: 201-445-2322 Website: www.poskanzerskott.com
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