Who is the initial decision maker under the contract unless otherwise outlined in the agreement?

• A. The architect
• B. The owner
• C. The contractor
• D. The owner's representative

Answer: (A)

In standard contract administration, the architect is the initial decision maker for matters involving contract interpretation and administration. This means the architect is responsible for interpreting the drawings and specifications, evaluating submittals for conformity, issuing clarifications, directing changes in the work, and deciding on substitutions as the project progresses. The architect acts as the owner’s agent for contract administration, so unless the agreement explicitly designates someone else with that authority, the architect holds the first authority to make these decisions. The owner’s representative or other parties may be empowered to act in specific areas only if the contract assigns them that role; otherwise, the architect’s initial decisions guide how the work proceeds, with any disputes or appeals following the contract’s established processes.