Uncertainty About 2011 Remains for Architects

 

Few firms anticipate expanding abroad or increasing use of Integrated Project Delivery in 2011. They also think it unlikely that this downturn will result in an increased number of currently unlicensed design professionals obtaining licensure.
Courtesy of AIA

There were some positive signs in the larger economy this month as well, with the national unemployment rate falling to 9.4 percent, according to Jennifer Riskus, AIA.

With an additional 103,000 jobs added in December, nonfarm payroll employment increased by more than one million jobs in 2010. However, architecture firm employment fell to 163,700 in November (the most recent data available), down nearly 26 percent from the most recent high in July 2008.

AIA asked survey panelists to look at potential developments for the architectural profession in 2011. They picked the ones they thought would be most significant. Their top picks reflected continuing uncertainty about the economy, despite signs that conditions are beginning to improve.

Nearly two-thirds (62 percent) thought that a growing number of architects will look for career opportunities outside of the architectural profession in 2011; 55 percent thought that firms will use more contract and part-time workers; and 51 percent expressed concern about outstanding receivables from clients.

The increase in part-time and contract workers may be a positive though, since firms may be starting out with temporary workers as they dip their toes back into hiring again. Then, as demand grows, these might translate into more permanent full-time positions.

– Courtesy of AIA