After Slight Growth, Billings Decline

The monthly ABI index scores are centered around 50, with scores above 50 indicating an aggregate increase in billings, and scores below 50 indicating a decline. Courtesy of AIA

After indicating a modicum of growth in September, the AIA's Architecture Billings Index (ABI) dipped back below 50 in October to a score of 48.7, as architecture firm billings declined for the month.

It is likely that it may take several more months for sustained growth to be reported by architecture firms. Inquiries for new work remain quite high at 61.7. This is promising news for landscape professionals who follow in the footsteps off the success of architecture.

Recently released economic reports indicate a slight improvement in the general economy. GDP grew at an annual rate of 2 percent in the third quarter, up from 1.7 percent in the second quarter.

In addition, the employment situation improved somewhat in October, with businesses adding 151,000 jobs overall. This was led by strong growth in the private sector, which added 159,000 jobs by itself. This sector has grown by more than one million positions in the last 10 months.

- Courtesy of AIA