The Tech-Forward A&E Firm  

Technology is no longer a back-office issue for A&E firms. It is becoming one of the clearest differences between firms that operate with confidence and those that are constantly reacting. Many firms still manage projects, staffing, billing, reporting, and profitability through a patchwork of spreadsheets, accounting tools, disconnected systems, and manual processes. That approach may feel familiar, but it increasingly limits visibility, slows decisions, creates risk, and makes growth harder to manage.

In this webinar, Steven Burns, FAIA, will explore what it means to become a tech-forward A&E firm. Drawing on his experience as an architect, software entrepreneur, former BQE executive, and consultant to design firms, Steven will show how integrated systems, clean data, consistent workflows, and strong adoption practices can create meaningful competitive advantage. 

The session will also examine why AI readiness depends on operational readiness. Before firms can benefit from AI agents, automation, forecasting, and intelligent recommendations, they need reliable data and connected systems. Attendees will learn how to reduce dependence on spreadsheets, prioritize technology investments, manage software transitions in practical phases, and build a stronger digital foundation.

The result is a firm that can make faster decisions, manage risk earlier, serve clients better, and scale with greater confidence. 

Photo courtesy of Shutterstock

Steven Burns, FAIA, is an architect, software entrepreneur, and longtime advisor to architecture and engineering firms on business strategy and technology. He began his career as a designer at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill before founding his own architecture practice, which he grew and later sold. Motivated by the operational challenges of running that firm, Steven taught himself to build software and created a project and practice management application that was later acquired by BQE Software, where he went on to lead product strategy for many years. Today, through his consultancy, The Well-Designed Firm, Steven advises A&E firms on modernizing operations, adopting technology, and building stronger, more resilient businesses. He is a member of the AIA College of Fellows and a frequent speaker on firm management and emerging technology.