The Architecture Billings Index (ABI), a
monthly survey of 300 architectural firms that measures the number reporting
rising vs. falling billings, “showed stronger growth in October, rebounding
slightly from a steep downturn in August and September, with a score of 53.2
(where any score above 50 shows growth),” the American Institute of Architects
reported on Friday. “Despite the ongoing slowdown in the economy overall, ABI
panel members continue to report at least modest billings gains each month. In
fact, most panelists feel that the impact of current credit market troubles is
no worse in October than it was in September.” Sub-indexes for residential,
commercial/industrial, institutional and mixed practices each showed little
movement.