Notes from the field
Perhaps you’ve noticed that despite market uncertainties, everyone is busy. Pulling together the latest issue of PM Digest relied on tried and true writers who shared insights from the field on the value of client feedback, establishing a hub of process resources, growth through giving, and lagging adoption of AI in small- and medium-size firms.
Letter from the editor
By Rebecca W.E. Edmunds, AIA, MFA
What aspects of practice management haven’t we touched in the last few issues? Many, I’m sure. This issue provides insight into a few ‘odd ball’ topics. But first, my brain was swimming with information after AIA25 in Boston, and despite some volatile economic forecasts (we are now contemplating the outlook for the new year) practices remain busy. A key issue is looking for new work, which the Digest's next issue will tackle.
One factor in this robust "busy-ness" is the unabated rise of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The consolidation pace in the AEC sector shows no sign of slowing down as we approach the end of 2025. After early in the year shifts like ClarkNexsen merging with JMT, Stantec acquiring Page, and DLR Group acquiring Tsoi Kobus Design, the appetite remains strong. Anyone who has been through any iteration of the M&A process knows it can be a daunting clash and eventual reconciliation of culture, systems, and talent.
The drive for larger, more comprehensive firm consolidations remains strong as practices of all types seek to expand their geographic reach, client base, and expertise through acquisitions. Among the top desired specialties are still healthcare and life sciences, but there's a heightened focus on mission-critical facilities, environmental services, and specialized engineering talent needed to tackle complex infrastructure projects.
Technological integration is also a key M&A driver. Large firms are looking for partners with expertise in advanced digital tools (AI-powered design workflows, computational modeling, and sophisticated project management platforms) to enhance efficiency, innovation, and client presentations.
Crucially, Private Equity (PE) firms—a sore subject for many of us—continue to be active, cementing their role as a chief non-traditional buyer. This is where we see the intense focus on specialized talent, as PE firms consolidate the fragmented market to build large "platform" companies. For example, the February 2025 investment by Signal Hill Equity Partners in ZMM Architects and Engineers is a clear case of acquiring an established, public-sector-focused firm to serve as a platform for consolidation and achieve immediate market scale in stable social infrastructure sectors.
While the M&A appetite among AEC firms and investors is projected to continue to increase, with some estimates suggesting sustained near-future volume, many smaller to mid-size firms continue to offer a crucial and different level of design and client care. My guess, despite all the news of mega-mergers, is there will always be a market for the get-to-know-you, work-right-there-with-you, and stay-with-you spirit of smaller practices.
Thus, for every massive and growing AEC powerhouse, the pendulum will swing to the meticulous care, localized insight and specialized touch a smaller practice provides. In that spirit, we share a few unique takes on important aspects of practice.
Features
Collecting, recording and integrating systems and standards into your firm’s culture
By Matthew Szymanski, AIA
Matt Szymanski of Arx Design Collaborative/Armature Design Build, a 20-person design-build partnership, shares how investing in “getting things in writing” can pay off for new hires and existing staff.
The undeniable value of client feedback
By Richard Friedman, Founder & President at Friedman & Partners
Frequent contributor Rich Friedman shares insight from his AIA Large Firm Round Table Marketing Forum presentation on how adding a Client feedback process benefits most practice management areas.
Building philanthropy into your firm's plan for growth
By Shannon Christensen, FAIA, Architect and Principal | Cushing Terrell
Shannon Christensen of Cushing Terrell makes the case for firm growth through philanthropic works, sharing her firms’ two big moves that have helped formalize their commitment to their communities.
Why AI adoption remains a work in progress
By Rebecca W.E. Edmunds, AIA, MFA, 2026 PMKC Chair
I couldn’t help but use AI to delve into the pros and cons of the profession’s lagging adoption of AI in business systems despite all the buzz about how our work will change.
Contribute to the Digest
If you have other topics related to practice management that you’d like explored or any articles you would like us to consider for inclusion, please contact pmkc@aia.org.