From running high-performance CAD applications to collaborating on large files across distributed teams, the demands placed on an architectural firm’s IT infrastructure are both complex and critical.
That’s why choosing the right IT support for architects isn’t just about fixing problems—it’s about empowering your practice with services that reduce downtime, improve collaboration and safeguard your work. Whether you’re a boutique studio or a large architectural firm, here are five essential IT services you should be looking for from a specialist provider.
Proactive Managed IT Support
Architectural practices often operate under tight deadlines and need continuous access to specialist software and shared resources. So reactive IT support alone isn’t sufficient.
A proactive managed IT support service should monitor systems around the clock. This should include identifying issues before they cause disruption, and keeping a business running smoothly.
With managed services tailored for architects, your provider will ensure software updates, security patches and backup processes are fully automated, while also giving your team fast, friendly access to expert help whenever needed.
Look for providers offering guaranteed SLAs, high first-contact resolution rates, and experience working with the platforms you rely on.
High-Performance Cloud Hosting & Storage
Architects often work with large design files: whether 3D renders, BIM data or high-res imagery. And these require both storage capacity and accessibility.
As such, any IT support partner for architects should be able to deliver scalable cloud services optimised for performance and scalability.
A hosted desktop or virtual workstation setup allows your team to access demanding applications like Revit, AutoCAD, or SketchUp from anywhere without compromising speed or user experience.
Secure cloud storage – combined with effective security – also makes it easy to collaborate with consultants, contractors and clients across locations.
With the right cloud infrastructure in place, your practice can enjoy seamless access to files, enhanced disaster recovery, and the flexibility to scale resources as your team grows.
Advanced Cyber Security Solutions
With increasing cyber threats and client data to protect, cyber security is a vital concern for every architectural practice. The risk is even greater when sensitive designs, planning information, or contractual documents are shared across devices, locations and stakeholders.
An IT provider should implement a comprehensive security strategy tailored to your risk profile. This includes firewall protection, endpoint security, email filtering, encrypted communications and regular vulnerability assessments.
Crucially, security services should also address the human factor: tailored user awareness training can help prevent phishing attacks or accidental data leaks that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Software & Licensing Management
Managing the full suite of software an architectural firm uses—especially across multiple devices and users—can quickly become time-consuming and costly without expert oversight.
Specialist IT support for architects can streamline software procurement, ensure licensing compliance, and provide updates across applications including Adobe Creative Cloud, Rhino, ArchiCAD, Vectorworks and more.
This not only keeps your team working with the latest tools but also helps optimise costs through volume licensing and vendor partnerships.
What’s more, some providers offer integration support between architectural design tools and wider practice management software; ensuring your systems work together, not in silos.
Remote Working & Collaboration Tools
The shift to hybrid working has changed how architects design, collaborate and present their work. Today’s practices need reliable tools that enable secure remote access and real-time project collaboration from any location.
A good IT support partner can help implement and maintain platforms like Microsoft 365, SharePoint, Teams or cloud-hosted project management tools, tailored to the needs of your practice.
With the right setup, your architects can co-author documents, host virtual design reviews, and engage clients—without sacrificing performance or data security.
IT Support For Architects: Why Choose A Specialist?
Choosing a provider that understands the unique demands of architectural work ensures that your systems are optimised not just for functionality, but for the way your team actually works. From dealing with resource-intensive applications to enabling multi-office collaboration, your IT should support creativity and precision, not hinder it.
At Akita, we deliver strategic IT support for architects and wider companies connected to construction across London and the UK.
With nearly three decades of experience, we understand how to align technology with your goals, ensuring uptime, performance, and security.
Whether you’re a small studio or a multi-site practice, we offer tailored support that scales with you.
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Want to learn more about how a better IT support partner can empower your architectural practice?
Get in touch today to discuss a tailored solution that supports your team, your tools and your future:
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