As of October 1, 2012, a new Maryland law prohibits employers operating in the state from asking employees and job applicants for their user name, password or other means to access the person's social media personal accounts or other electronic communications. Maryland was the first state to enact such a regulation, but multiple others are following with similar legislation.   For the full provisions, see the Maryland Labor & Employment Code § 3-712. 

by Kathy Denise Dixon, AIA, NOMA, LEED AP 

Many people wonder why they should use an Architect for their construction project, especially when residential construction doesn't typically require a licensed professional for permit approval. They assume that a General Contractor can meet their basic needs. So why spend the extra money on an Architect for your project? There are a number of skills an Architect brings to your project that others just are not trained to do:

Vision - The Architect can interpret how you want to use the space, how you can use the space, and what type of space is most appropriate for your needs. Ideally, the design will express the client's character and will be unique to their personality.

Visualization - Your Architect is trained to visualize potential rooms in 3-dimensions. This is important because it not only helps to create a pleasant space to live or work, but it assists in coordinating the many hidden systems (i.e., mechanical/electrical/plumbing) that need to be accommodated simultaneously.

Value - The Architect is trained to examine multiple design scenarios and determine how each can affect your wallet. Changes in materials, finishes, fixtures, etc., should be evaluated long before actual construction occurs. Energy savings and environmental effects also are taken into account during the architectural process.

Other factors the Architect considers during the design process include how the project relates to its site and other buildings; its historical character; building code compliance; and local regulations, just to name a few. Your Architect will create alternative design schemes that may not have been anticipated, often going beyond what you thought possible. These design services represent money well spent before a shovel goes into the ground. Your options are far more limited--and typically more costly--after you've begun construction. So it's better to anticipate and solve these problems before building commences. Your Architect will guide you through this design process and, working with your General Contractor, deliver a highly successful, functional and beautiful project within your budget.