Bringing a university campus project to life often means bridging two very different worlds. In Part 1 of his Landscape Architect & Specifier News (LASN) series “Bridging the Gap,” our Principal – Campus Sector Tony Catchot shares lessons learned from working both as a consultant and within a university planning department. He describes how consultants are used to structured contracts, clear deliverables, and fast-moving timelines, while campus planners must juggle shifting priorities, institutional politics, and the realities of academic calendars. It’s no surprise that these differences can create friction. But, as Tony points out, they also open the door for better collaboration.

When consultants approach projects with flexibility and a willingness to understand university culture, and when planners prioritize transparency and empower strong project leaders, both sides can align more effectively, keeping projects on track and true to the institution’s mission. Read Part I of Bridging the Gap: Understanding the Divide Between University Planning Departments and Design Consultants on LASN.

In Part II of the series, Tony shifts the focus from processes to people, unpacking the relational challenges that often get in the way of strong partnerships. University planners are frequently overwhelmed with generic marketing pitches and constrained by rigid procurement rules, while consultants invest significant time and effort trying to build relationships that may or may not lead to projects. The key, Tony argues, lies in empathy and authenticity. Universities can set the stage for success by being upfront about their needs and constraints, while consultants stand out when they’ve done their homework and approach each engagement as a genuine partnership rather than a transaction.

At the end of the day, it’s not just about delivering a plan. It’s about building trust, creating shared understanding, and setting the foundation for more thoughtful, enduring campus growth. Read Part 2 of Bridging the Gap: Improving Collaboration Between Campus Planners and Consultants.