Summary: On September 25, the AIA launched Soloso.aia.org, the Institute’s new online resource connecting members to a continuous flow of information on trends, solutions, products, and strategies related to architecture. Soloso is a Web 2.0 site designed to facilitate knowledge-sharing and idea exchange among architects. AIA members have full access to all that Soloso offers. They can search its ever-expanding content and add to it by creating a professional profile and uploading projects, thus connecting with other AIA members and the architecture community at large to build a professional network that has the potential to help the entire architecture community grow.

How Soloso works

1. Signing in is easy

• Go to Soloso.aia.org
• Click the Sign In button
• Sign in using the same information you use to log in to aia.org (if you create a new AIA account you will have full access to Soloso in 24 hours).

2. Finding information: keyword or visual map. Soloso’s keyword search allows you quickly to find articles, projects, images, video, reviews, professional profiles, and more. You can also use the visual map to find information in a more intuitive way. The graphic display supports exploration and creative ideation by allowing you to follow paths of related concepts. Begin with one of the AIA’s four key areas:

• Leadership
• Design
• Practice
• Building Performance

and embark on a path of discovery. You can save and download images, create slide shows, bookmark content and links, write opinions and reviews, and upload your own content.

3. Creating a profile and adding content
Once you’re signed in, your basic profile is created automatically. Select the Menu tab and then select MyProfile. You can create an online profile to share your education, specialties, affiliations, and interests with other members. You can also save slide shows of your favorite structures as well as articles and past searches for later review. Select the Contributions tab within your profile to add content to Soloso. When you add a project to Soloso you can include details such as project team, location, firm information, and awards. You can also add detail about the substructure, shell, interiors, mechanical, equipment and furnishings, site work, and special features. The larger architecture community can view your projects.

(To update your profile, select the Menu tab and then select My Profile).

On Soloso you also can blog about anything related to architecture. Share your opinions, observations, and experience. AIA members can add comments to your blog creating an online dialogue.

Click here and give it a try.