2026 CFSEI EXPO | MAY 18-20, 2026 | LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA

Design Firm Risk Management Landscape

Earn 1 PDH / 1 LU

Design firms operate in an increasingly complex risk environment where contractual obligations, project dynamics, and client expectations can significantly impact exposure to liability. This session will examine practical strategies for identifying, assessing, and controlling risk. Focusing on contractual risk mitigation, participants will learn some proven techniques for negotiating reasonable contractual terms, aligning client agreements with professional standards, and avoiding hidden exposures that often arise from poorly defined responsibilities.

AIA The presentation will also highlight how strategic project selection and a well-crafted scope of services establishes reasonable project expectations. Attendees will gain insight into balancing opportunity with risk and recognizing red flags in client and project profiles.

Attendees will leave with actionable tools to strengthen their firm’s risk posture—understanding not only how to mitigate contractual risks, but how to proactively support long-term resilience and client trust.

Learning Objectives

Identify the most common sources of design firm liabilities according to ACEC claim surveys and insurance carrier claims case studies.
Review common contract formats to identify sources of contractual risk in construction contracts and discuss specific alternative wording to help mitigate contractual risk.
Apply practical negotiation strategies to modify or clarify unfavorable contract terms and conditions.
Evaluate project opportunities through a structured risk-assessment lens, recognizing how client type, delivery method, and project complexity influence overall firm risk.
Develop clear and defensible scopes of services that align with professional responsibilities, minimize scope creep, and establish realistic expectations with clients and consultants.

Robert Graham
Shipley & Associates Inc.

With more than 20 years of experience as a property and casualty insurance broker, Robert has built a reputation for helping professional service organizations manage risk with clarity and confidence. As a leading broker, he combines deep technical knowledge with a practical, solutions-focused approach to risk mitigation and loss control. Robert’s insight and experience make him a trusted advisor and an engaging voice on how professionals can proactively safeguard their future.