Michael Fitzpatrick Architects (MFA), a multi-disciplinary architecture studio based in Melbourne, boasts an impressive portfolio of innovative and sustainable designs. As architects make the commitment to explore endless possibilities in cutting-edge materials and energy-saving yet bespoke designs, they also face the challenge of keeping up with a rapidly evolving landscape of legal requirements and challenges. This is where the rise of data-driven legal insights can play an invaluable role.

Legal data science, defined as the assimilation and analytics of lawful information through the lens of artificial intelligence and big data, is changing industries at a rapid pace. It is also making its way into the world of architecture; for example, by simplifying concepts (such as saving lawyers time on research by knowing exactly what they are looking for), helping find the most pertinent information to draw up agreements, and validating evidence more quickly to help modernise and diversify the profession. The effect of legal data science on legal practice has been covered in depth at this article, however, real estate and building have a different set of challenges, and here are five key considerations when integrating lawful data extraction into your architectural process:

Legal Limits

As architects look towards new innovations, a host of regulations and limits also arise, and these must all be factored into the building plans. Legal data science can simplify the process by combing through rules and regulations that apply to each unique project. For example, the placement of a property within a land title zone may affect how high or far your building can extend.

Energy Efficiency

Energy conservation and environmental sustainability have become a hot topic in Australia, and due to public demand have even become a legal requirement in new homes. This has driven a demand for buildings which save energy and have a minimal environmental impact, and with the help of legal data science, these materials and designs can be pulled up quickly and easily to formulate a plan of action.

Personalisation

Property no longer exists in a one-size-fits-all model, and personalisation has become increasingly important in any successful project. Whether it’s to reflect a client’s unique taste, or to push their personal boundaries into the realm of creative “outside of the box” design, legal data science can ensure that the most relevant options are presented from the outset.

Rejection Barrier

To factor in all aspects of a project, while also considering the previously mentioned energy and personalisation requirements, and then creating a plan of action only to have the project rejected at the end due to a legal oversight is incredibly disheartening. Not only is it a waste of time and resources, but it also damages the reputation and credibility of the firm in question. However, with legal data science, these risks can be eliminated.

Clear Expectations

By ensuring that compliance and regulations are met from the outset, clients can be assured that the perfect building will materialise – without too many surprises.