Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture 215: From Pay Transparency to Shared Leadership, Erin Agdinaoay on WPA’s Model
What does it really mean for an architecture firm to be transparent?
This week, we dive into the operations of Work Program Architects (WPA), an award-winning practice known for its community-driven design and radically open culture, with Associate Principal Erin Agdinaoay.
Erin shares her journey to WPA, drawn initially by their community-focused work and then captivated by their commitment to radical transparency. She details how WPA puts this philosophy into action daily: 100% open books accessible to all staff, full salary visibility (shown even during the hiring process), and a rotating Raises and Bonuses Committee that gives everyone a chance to participate in financial decision-making. Erin explains that this level of openness isn't just about fairness - it's a strategic approach designed to demystify firm operations, foster trust, and empower every team member, regardless of experience level, to think and act like an owner.
The conversation explores the practicalities and challenges, from managing growth while maintaining communication to educating staff on financial literacy through exposure and direct involvement. Erin addresses common questions and skepticism, emphasizing that while transparency can create friction, assuming good intent and approaching conversations with curiosity makes the process constructive. WPA even shares its internal templates to encourage other firms to adopt similar practices. Erin's ultimate hope extends beyond WPA.
"My hope is that firms all over dramatically increase their transparency and their ability to give access to business information and financial literacy to all staff in their firm, especially younger staff to create a long runway to learn the business. That way our very talented young professionals can learn what maybe the default is today so that they can create a different tomorrow that increases the value of architecture in the profession." - Erin Agdinaoay
This episode concludes by showcasing how WPA's radical transparency fosters a culture of trust, equity, and shared ownership, challenging traditional firm management norms. Erin's insights reveal that openness is not just an ideal but a practical tool for building resilience, improving business acumen across the firm, and ultimately, empowering the next generation to elevate the architectural profession by understanding its foundations.
Guest:
Erin Agdinaoay is an Associate Principal at Work Program Architects (WPA), based in the Norfolk area of Virginia. With a people-first leadership style, she has been instrumental in shaping and implementing WPA's commitment to radical transparency, including open books and salary visibility. She is an advocate for pay equity and believes in empowering all staff with financial literacy to foster an ownership mindset within the firm. Erin is a graduate of Virginia Tech's architecture program.
Is This Episode for You?
This episode is for you if:
✅ You are curious about alternative firm management models beyond traditional hierarchies.
✅ You believe in or want to learn more about pay transparency and open-book management.
✅ You are interested in fostering an "ownership mindset" among your staff.
✅ You want practical advice on how to implement transparency initiatives in your own firm.
✅ You are a younger professional seeking firms with values aligned with equity and openness.
📍 Show Links:
- Connect with Erin on LinkedIn
- Learn more about Work Program Architects
- Connect with Work Program Architects on LinkedIn
📍 Follow Practice Disrupted on Social:
Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Twitter
Be a part of our community — join the conversation