FAQ
Q: What specific tasks fall to the consultant versus Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) for Part 1, particularly regarding data analysis, writing, and dashboard development?
A: CMU will provide the master data set and preliminary analysis as foundational information. They will also build a merged database and dashboard. The consultant's scope is to incorporate and analyze the CMU team's work product and be responsible for any writing and any additional analysis to update the existing resource, Lessons from the Leading Edge.
Q: Is the CMU scope funded separately from the $53-$55K budget?
A: Yes
Q: How many case studies are anticipated across Parts 1–3, and what level of depth is expected? (e.g., short profiles vs. detailed narratives involving interviews or new research)?
A: The existing resources can be used as precedent for updating Part 1 and 2. New research and interviews will also be essential, especially for Part 3. Please outline your suggestions and methodological approach in your RFP submission.
Q: What is the expected length, format, and are graphics expected for each of the three parts?
A: Base length, format, and graphics on existing resources. Layout of the resource will be done by AIA. AIA has access to all COTE® Top Ten Award images. Additional images and credits would need to be obtained by the consultant. AIA will provide a photo release for this use.
Q: Is the final deliverable a single resource that contains three parts?
A: There should be 3 distinct parts that can be accessed individually and also linked together as one resource.
Q: Will AIA or CMU provide access to existing data, firms, or contacts for case studies and interviews, or is the consultant expected to source this independently?
A: AIA will provide COTE Top Ten firm contacts. CMU will provide the dataset of COTE Top Ten project and framework Information.
Q: Is the current timeline (Dec 2025 – Sept 2026) firm, and how many review and revision cycles should the consultant plan for?
A: The timeline in the RFP lists major milestones - anticipated dates for the full draft and the final deliverable. There will be reviews and check-in virtual meetings from project kick off to completion ~ assume approximately 1 per month. AIA will copyedit once full draft is received. You have the opportunity to help develop a more detailed schedule in the proposed workplan deliverable in January 2026.
Q: Is it expected that the Working Group, or other stakeholders, will provide comments and feedback on drafts of any of the three reports? If so, how many rounds are anticipated?
A: Yes, it is expected that the Working Group will provide feedback on the resource draft. AIA will be your main contact and there will be three COTE leadership members assisting with overall guidance of the resource development.
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Ellie Falcon
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC
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Original Message:
Sent: 11-05-2025 01:09 PM
From: Ellie Falcon
Subject: DEADLINE EXTENDED | Request for Proposal for AIA's Implementing the Framework for Design Excellence | Submissions close Wednesday, November 26, 2025|Subject: DEADLINE EXTENDED | Request for Proposal for AIA's Implementing the Framework for Design Excellence | Submissions close Wednesday, November 26, 2025
*Please submit all questions by Thursday, November 6 at 3pm ET. An FAQ section will be added by Friday, November 7. Thank you!
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Ellie Falcon
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC
Original Message:
Sent: 10-16-2025 12:08 PM
From: Ellie Falcon
Subject: DEADLINE EXTENDED | Request for Proposal for AIA's Implementing the Framework for Design Excellence | Submissions close Wednesday, November 26, 2025|Subject: DEADLINE EXTENDED | Request for Proposal for AIA's Implementing the Framework for Design Excellence | Submissions close Wednesday, November 26, 2025
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is requesting proposals for the development of a new resource, Implementing the Framework for Design Excellence, focused on accelerating the adoption of the AIA's Framework for Design Excellence to improve the zero carbon, resilience, health, and equity outcomes of the built environment.
Firms and practitioners are searching for examples to help them answer the following common questions in their desire to improve the carbon, resilience, health, and equity outcomes of their portfolios:
- How do I embed these concepts in my firm's design processes, culture, and success metrics?
- How might my practice be different if we fully incorporate the Framework for Design Excellence?
- How can I get traction with the Framework for Design Excellence in challenging typologies, clients, and/or regions?
The AIA Committee on the Environment (COTE®), proposes a three-part resource to address the questions above, to accelerate the adoption of the Framework for Design Excellence, and to improve zero carbon, resilience, health, and equity outcomes of the built environment. The purpose of this RFP is to seek information from individuals or organizations about their ability to conduct this project and the general approach they would take. Please review the submission requirements before submitting your proposal. The deadline to submit is Thursday, November 13, 2025. Finalists will be selected by, on, or around Thursday, December 4, 2025.
Learn more >
Questions? Please reach out to Ellie Falcon at elidafalcon@aia.org and cote@aia.org.
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Ellie Falcon
The American Institute of Architects
Washington DC
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