New research shows architects eager for greater influence in building product innovation

WASHINGTON – February 25, 2026 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA), in collaboration with Deltek and ConstructConnect, has published the latest Architect’s Journey to Specification report, exploring how architects make specification decisions and collaborate with building product manufacturers.

Innovation & Collaboration in the Architect’s Journey to Specification, provides comprehensive analysis of three key areas: how architects engage with manufacturers, adopt innovative technologies, and integrate sustainability into their design processes. This study provides updated insight into where architects seek technical information, what they value in manufacturer relationships, and how innovation and sustainability influence product selection.

“This report reflects the voices of architects across the country and provides actionable insights for manufacturers, design professionals, and industry partners,” said AIA EVP/Chief Executive Officer Carole Wedge, FAIA. “By understanding these trends, the profession can strengthen collaboration, accelerate innovation, and advance sustainable practices that benefit clients and communities.”

Key findings of the report include:

• 73 percent of architects highly value being involved in product development by manufacturers, while only 24 percent express a desire to participate directly in these efforts.
• Only 31 percent of architects are early adopters of sustainable solutions, a figure unchanged since 2020. Notably, 57 percent of these adopters also embrace new technology.
• 72 percent of architects prefer U.S.-manufactured products, citing energy performance, durability, occupant health, and supply chain stability as key factors.
• Share of architects that proactively recommend or integrate sustainability options grew from 58 percent in 2020 to 79 percent in 2025.

Learn more and download Innovation & Collaboration in the Architect’s Journey to Specification.

About ConstructConnect
At ConstructConnect, our software solutions provide the information that construction professionals need to start every project on a solid foundation. For more than 100 years, our keen insights and market intelligence have empowered commercial firms, building product manufacturers, trade contractors, and architects to make data‑driven decisions, streamline preconstruction workflows, and maximize their productivity. Our newest offerings – including our comprehensive, AI‑assisted software – help our clients find, bid, and win more projects.

Visit ConstructConnect.com to learn more.

As an Innovation Partner of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) and a sponsor of the Architects’ Journey to Specification research series, ConstructConnect contributes construction market data and insights that help architects, manufacturers, and contractors better understand how products are discovered, evaluated, and specified across the commercial construction lifecycle.

About Deltek
Deltek is the intelligent platform that powers the project lifecycle—from ERP and accounting to project bidding, planning, delivery, and analysis. Trusted by 30,000 organizations across government contracting, aerospace and defense, architecture and engineering, construction, and consulting, Deltek delivers the speed, clarity, and control needed when the stakes are high. Learn more at www.deltek.com.

About AIA
Founded in 1857, AIA consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing.

AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.