The Macroeconomics of the A/E Industry

Architecture and engineering firms operate within a complex economic environment, and understanding that larger landscape is essential for making informed business and project decisions. This session introduces an MBA-style framework for interpreting the macroeconomic forces that influence demand, competition, and long-term opportunity in the A/E industry. Austin Miller will examine key indicators such as the Architectural Billings Index, interest rates, and infrastructure spending, and explore how globalization, AI, and the evolving alternative A/E practices shape the competitive landscape. Using tools like Porter’s Five Forces and SWOT analysis, attendees will learn how to connect external market dynamics to internal firm strategy, resource planning, and project forecasting. The goal of this session is to help A/E professionals anticipate change, strengthen strategic planning, and build the market awareness needed to guide their firms through shifting conditions with confidence.

Upon completion of this course, the Learner should be able to:

• Analyze key economic indicators, including ABI trends, interest rates, and infrastructure spending, to assess how external conditions may affect project pipelines and resource planning.
• Evaluate competitive pressures in the A/E industry using frameworks such as Porter’s Five Forces to inform firm-level decisions that support stable, reliable project delivery.
• Identify how emerging technologies, alternative service models, modular solutions, and globalized delivery options create new competitive pressures that influence risk, project pipelines, and long-term demand for A/E services.
• Apply SWOT analysis to connect macroeconomic trends to internal practice management decisions that improve project stability, reduce operational risk, and support the health, safety, and welfare of building occupants through more consistent service delivery.

Approximately 1 hour. Delivered via webinar or face-to-face presentation. Available sessions shown below.

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This course is registered with: 1 Industry Association(s)