Every construction project has them. They both play critical roles in completion, and both have their limitations. But the most important association between the two is their interdependence. An architect can create, visualize and communicate the end result, but is limited in that by himself he cannot effectively build the dream. The contractor needs the schematics so that he can actually build out the plan. It also helps him to have a mental image of the end result so that he can maintain not just the structural integrity that the schematics require, but to maintain the “spirit and personality” of the project in his craftmanship.
In life there are essentially two groups of people… architects and contractors. I believe that any one person can possess both qualities in their professional and personal lives. We all have dreams, and all of us have an idea how to achieve them. But in terms of organizational life, there just seems to be two groupings of people – those who communicate the vision, and those who have their specific role(s) in achieving that vision. Which one are you? Which one am I?
That has been the question of late in my mind and heart. Remember, we all have dreams and an idea of how we would like things to progress or develop, but for most of us we are required to wear that contractor hard hat to complete someone else’s dream. In the church world, I find myself desiring and needing to serve in both roles. On one hand God has provided vision to our leadership and congregation, so I must work diligently and obediently to fulfill that plan. On the other hand God has provided called out leaders a certain level of flexibility to achieve HIS desired outcome. That flexibility creates an opportunity for me to seek God’s creativity in the specific arena in which I serve. So on most days I get the privilege to function in both roles – contractor and architect.
But here is are a few questions for you to comment on…
Given that we have to serve in both capacities, are people better suited/skilled/gifted to perform more routinely in either of those roles?
What are the typical symptoms of miscast church leader (volunteer or paid)?
How does the organization gain or suffer from this problem?
How does the misaligning of contractors and architects get resolved?
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