With over 300 U.S. courses built each year, a startling 90% plus are constructed without qualified shapers, by architects "visiting" the site infrequently. It's not surprising, of the 100 greatest courses, 75 were built before 1935, when the architect was more intimately involved.

Internationally the situation is far worse construction companies and "architects" who don't know golf are building and designing courses! The resulting projects reflect their lack of knowledge; how truly unfortunate for the investors and the golfing public.

Architecture of repetition (McGolf). Architects spending little time on site require workers familiar with their "style." By limiting the number of "experienced" bidders, your construction costs are likely to increase while reducing the chance of your course being unique.

The "leadership driven architect" can pay for himself by working with a less experienced, conscientious builder who makes an aggressive bid.

" ...the potential price the owner might pay"! Amazing now the architect isn't even accountable for the quality of the finished product!

Inexperienced builders left alone struggle. They are not incompetent. They require guidance, information and communication. Without it escalating costs are a good possibility or the course is left in an inferior state.

This astounding quote comes from the associate architect!

Even with years of experience the contractor could not decipher what the architect was after. The architect's 2% on-site involvement was used to edit and re-edit completed work.

What do you suppose happened with costs?

A telling comment by a leading contractor his company has worked with virtually every major American golf course architect.

Less than 5% involvement may be "idyllic" for the architect, but not for those investing millions attempting to secure their position in the marketplace.

Wouldn't all-day everyday, 100% effort by the architect be "idyllic" for the contractor, owner and final result?

John Strawn illustrates the regrettable state of golf course architecture today. Sign numerous contracts, leave the construction crew to build in a state of ignorance and collect. Collect. Collect!

Five percent or less on-site involvement by the architect, the industry norm! Doesn't this boggle the mind?