Q: Is there a policy of the Chinese government regarding design and construction contracts of museums in China?

A: There is no broad policy regarding design and construction contracts of museums in China but rather a broad policy of foreign design and construction firms and individuals who work on all projects within China. The policy is simple. You must have a China-based partner organization or registered individual to perform design and construction services on projects within China. This partnership can be in the form of a joint venture, the preferred method today, or a foreign-based design or construction firm can become a China-based business entity which must then have a Chinese national as the head of the organization. Many firms have went this route over a period of time as it is the most efficient way to run operations in China if your organization wishes to be there a long time. In addition to the contract issues regarding museums, being that the Chinese are very proud of their heritage, it would be good business and culturally correct to have Chinese experts as part of your team. The sensitivity that this would show the Chinese will go a long way. Much success to you for this growing building type in China!

Thanks to Paul Doherty, AIA. He is the managing director of General Land Corp. a full-service, global real estate development firm with a focus on the Asia Pacific market. Paul is a thought leader, strategist and integrator of technology and business. He is an author, educator, analyst and consultant to Fortune 500 organizations, global government agencies and prominent institutions and is on the board of directors of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA). He can be contacted at pdoherty@general-land.com.

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