2023 Architects Journey to Specification reveals post-pandemic shifts in firm culture, product experimentation

Architects are still impacted by the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to AIA’s 2023 Architects Journey to Specification, the annual report assessing changes to how architects learn about materials, interact with manufacturers, and make informed product selections. The report, sponsored by Deltek and ConstructConnect, suggests the ensuing recession, supply chain issues, and remote working has led to a significant decline in risk taking, early product adoption, and collaboration since 2019.

Masters in adaptation

Despite disruptions, the data shows that architects play a pivotal role in specification, with more than 80% being responsible for finding new products and materials used in a building project.

“The Architect’s Journey to Specification uncovers the key strategies needed to break down the obstacles and improve the relationship between manufacturers, architects and specification writers,” said Kevn Plexico, senior vice president, Deltek. “Forward thinking professionals can build upon these strategies to produce more impactful project outcomes.”

The use of artificial intelligence (A.I.) is expected to grow notably in the future. A fifth of respondents expect to use A.I. for product research and specification. A quarter of principals and a third of project managers expect the same.

Valued Resources

The study shows architects continue to invest time and resources in professional development and learning new ways to better serve clients: 83% of architects report continuing education and webinars as the most widely used source for staying updated on new products and material trends; More than half (54%) of architects reported live/on-demand courses as one of their preferred ways to learn about new products; 77% of architects want BPMs to keep them informed about new products.

“The study underscores two initiatives that AIA continues to strengthen— our Conference on Architecture & Design and our education programs,” said Lakisha Ann Woods, CAE, AIA’s CEO/EVP. “The findings of this study point to the value that design professionals place on opportunities to engage directly with building products and materials—and technical experts—at conferences and events. And it reveals the importance of lunch and learns, product libraries, and industry associations as mechanisms for early career professionals to monitor product trends.”

Young architects, especially, underscored the value of continued education and access to manufacturers. Those 43 and younger reported overwhelmingly (92%) a preference for in-person lunches as the preferred way to learn about new products and materials, see products, and build relationships. Overall, 85% of architects agree that they understand how manufacturers can help them with their projects; 83% of respondents wish they had more time to learn about new products.

"The AJS continues to deliver impactful insights into the ongoing evolution relationship between architect and building product manufacturers,” said Derek Guffey, vice president, sales, at ConstructConnect. “Manufacturers everywhere can learn and build their go-to-market strategy around this impactful research."