As a structural engineer, I manage the architect’s expectations by providing clear timelines and regular updates. For example, when unexpected site conditions arose on a high-rise project, I quickly communicated the issue and revised the schedule, which helped maintain trust and keep the project on track.

Structural engineering projects almost always depends on what architecture wants or is trying to do. As such, timelines and milestones are easily not achievable and classic project management is pointless and unproductive. From my experience i find the best strategy is to understand the ideas of the architecture, discuss, iterate, stabilize the project. From that point everything will move quite fast. With experience you can learn how to plan this, while keeping the stakeholders informed, so that they feel integrated and part of the process.

To address stakeholders’ confusion about your project’s structural timelines, develop a detailed schedule outlining key milestones, deadlines, and deliverables, ensuring it’s accessible to all stakeholders. Communicate transparently by presenting the timeline in meeting, explaining each phase, and encouraging questions to foster understanding and alignment. Set realistic expectations by honestly conveying achievable goals within the timeframe,communicating any limitations or potential risks. Provide regular updates through a consistent communication plan, informing stakeholders of progress and any timeline changes. Be responsive to concerns by listening to feedback and adjusting the timeline if necessary, promptly communicating any changes.

To manage stakeholders' expectations efficiently, we must first identify all stakeholders, both internal and external, and understand their expectations (STAKEHOLDER REGISTER). Next, we need to categorize them according to their impact and level of interest. Finally, based on their "ability to influence (impact)" and "level of interest in the project," we should engage with stakeholders accordingly: Manage closely (for stakeholders with high impact and high interest) Keep satisfied (for stakeholders with high impact but low interest) Keep informed (for stakeholders with low impact but high interest) Monitor (for stakeholders with low impact and low interest)