Final answer:
An architect should retain project files for as long as legally required or necessary to defend against potential lawsuits, review designs in case of problems, or for patent and work verification purposes. This retention is facilitated by the use of CAD software and is crucial for accurate and precise documentation of architectural work.
Step-by-step explanation:
How long an architect should retain project files can depend on several factors, including legal requirements, the possibility of future claims, and the need for historical documentation of their work. Architects use tools such as CAD (computer-aided software) for drafting plans and creating three-dimensional models, which means that their project files are often digital, making long-term storage more feasible. Keeping project files for an extended period is crucial because it provides data to defend against lawsuits, data that can be reviewed if problems occur in the construction, and information that can help in gaining patents or verifying work hours if needed. Furthermore, maintaining a precise and accurate documentation of the architectural work is not only a professional standard but also an invaluable resource in the case of engineering failures to identify the causes and improve future designs.