What changed when SMRT Architects & Engineers implemented Synthesis wasn't just the platform. It was the mindset.
After four intranet iterations spanning nearly two decades — from hand-coded HTML to ThoughtFarmer to SharePoint — SMRT, a 130-person integrated architecture and engineering firm based in Portland, Maine, made a different kind of commitment. They decided that internal work is real work, that their firm is a worthy client, and then treated their Synthesis implementation accordingly.
Nicole Rogers served not just as executive sponsor, but as principal in charge. Graham Parker, who had already proven the ROI of data-driven process improvement on the accounting side of the business, moved into a dedicated knowledge management role. A project number was created in Deltek. Hours were tracked on timesheets. The implementation got the same rigor and attention SMRT gives its external clients and the results showed.
That investment didn't end at go-live. Nicole has continued to drive adoption at the senior leadership level because SMRT understands that launching Synthesis is just the beginning, not the finish line. Meanwhile, Graham has expanded his work into AI, helping build the digital knowledge foundation that makes tools like Synthesis Knowledge Agents and AI Search valuable.
Knowledge management can't be the ninth thing on somebody's to-do list in the AI era. SMRT's story is a case study in what happens when it isn't.
In this webinar, Nicole Rogers, Senior Principal and Director of Architecture, and Graham Parker, Knowledge Manager, will share their firm's story — from the organizational shifts that unlocked knowledge management to a live look at where they're headed with AI and learning management.
We'll explore:
How treating the Synthesis implementation like a real client project changed the outcome
The change management and internal marketing work that drove adoption before, during, and after launch
How Nicole's continued executive sponsorship keeps the platform alive and growing past go-live
How and why Graham moved from the finance team to a dedicated knowledge management role
What it takes to build the digital knowledge foundation that enables AI agents to actually deliver value
A live tour of CALVIN, SMRT's Synthesis platform, and a look at their early work with Synthesis Knowledge Agents and LMS
If your firm has struggled to give its knowledge management program real momentum, SMRT's story offers an honest, hard-won perspective on what it actually takes: the right investments in mindset, people, process, and culture — alongside the right technology.
This 60-minute webinar will take place on Thursday, July 30th at 11:00 AM Pacific.
We'll save plenty of time for Q&A.
We hope to see you there.
Featured Guests
Nicole Rogers, Senior Principal and Director of Architecture
Nicole brings over 15 years of experience applying her leadership, design, and problem-solving skills to complex design challenges. She excels at managing multidisciplinary teams, mentoring emerging professionals, and integrating client goals into project outcomes, ensuring each design serves its users and delivers meaningful experiences. As executive sponsor of SMRT’s Synthesis implementation, she applies that same approach to internal initiatives, driving adoption and sustained engagement at the senior leadership level.
Graham Parker, Knowledge Manager
As Knowledge Manager at SMRT, Graham plays a pivotal role in managing and disseminating critical information across the organization. With a keen focus on enhancing project management and delivery, Graham has been instrumental in integrating advanced data management tools and methodologies to streamline processes and improve efficiency. He works across all departments and is a key contributor to business and resource planning.
About SMRT
SMRT is an award-winning architecture and engineering firm with an over 140-year legacy founded on innovation and collaboration. Our multidisciplinary team delivers integrated solutions that address complex challenges, strengthen communities, and better our world. Headquartered in Maine, we serve clients nationwide across health and wellness, education, advanced manufacturing, government and civic, workplace, and life sciences sectors.