National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) Market Research Report

Background

Overview

The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) is a nonprofit organization comprising the architectural licensing boards of the 50 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Established in 1919, NCARB's mission is to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by leading the regulation of the practice of architecture through the development and application of standards for licensure and credentialing of architects.

Mission and Vision

Mission: In collaboration with licensing boards, NCARB facilitates the licensure and credentialing of architects to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public.

Vision: To ensure safe places and spaces for all communities.

Primary Area of Focus

NCARB focuses on developing and administering national programs for candidates pursuing architectural licensure and helps architects expand their professional reach through the NCARB Certificate. This includes overseeing the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) and the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), as well as facilitating reciprocity between jurisdictions.

Industry Significance

As the central body coordinating architectural licensure across the United States and its territories, NCARB plays a pivotal role in maintaining consistent standards for the profession, ensuring that architects are qualified to practice safely and effectively. Its initiatives support the mobility of architects and uphold the integrity of the built environment.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Facilitate Licensure: Develop and manage programs that enable the pursuit, achievement, and maintenance of architectural licensure.

Foster Collaboration: Engage proactively with licensing boards and industry organizations to enhance the understanding and effectiveness of architectural regulation.

Maximize Value: Enhance the progress of licensing boards and customers through valuable programs and services.

Specific Areas of Specialization

Licensure Programs: Administering the AXP and ARE to ensure comprehensive preparation for architectural practice.

Reciprocity Facilitation: Managing the NCARB Certificate to streamline the licensure process across different jurisdictions.

Regulatory Guidance: Providing model laws, regulations, and guidelines to member boards to promote uniformity in licensing standards.

Key Technologies Utilized

NCARB employs various technologies to support its programs, including online platforms for exam administration, digital record-keeping systems for licensure candidates, and data analytics tools to monitor and improve program effectiveness.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

NCARB's initiatives primarily target the architectural profession within the United States and its territories, focusing on licensure candidates, licensed architects, and the regulatory bodies overseeing architectural practice.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a nonprofit organization, NCARB's funding primarily comes from fees associated with its programs and services, including exam fees, record maintenance fees, and certification fees. Specific financial details are not publicly disclosed.

Recent Funding Rounds

NCARB does not engage in traditional funding rounds, as it is a nonprofit entity. Its financial resources are generated through the fees it charges for its various programs and services.

Notable Investors

As a nonprofit organization, NCARB does not have investors. Its financial support comes from the fees paid by licensure candidates, licensed architects, and member boards.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds generated are utilized to support NCARB's mission, including the development and administration of licensure programs, research and development of regulatory guidelines, and initiatives to enhance the value and effectiveness of its services.

Pipeline Development

Key Pipeline Candidates

NCARB does not develop products in the traditional sense; instead, it focuses on the continuous improvement and evolution of its programs and services to meet the needs of the architectural profession.

Stages of Clinical Trials or Product Development

While NCARB does not engage in clinical trials, it regularly reviews and updates its programs, such as the AXP and ARE, to ensure they remain relevant and effective in preparing candidates for architectural practice.

Target Conditions

The primary focus is on the licensure process for architects, ensuring that candidates meet the necessary education, experience, and examination requirements to practice safely and competently.

Relevant Timelines for Anticipated Milestones

NCARB continually assesses and updates its programs, with specific timelines for changes communicated through official channels. For example, in 2023, NCARB retired the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) rolling clock policy and implemented a new score validity policy to ensure candidate competency while removing unnecessary barriers.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Online Examination Platforms: Secure, computer-based testing systems for administering the ARE.

Digital Record-Keeping Systems: Platforms for maintaining and managing NCARB Records, which document candidates' education, experience, and examination history.

Significant Scientific Methods

Data Analytics: Utilized to monitor exam pass rates, identify trends, and inform program improvements.

Research and Development: Ongoing studies to assess the effectiveness of licensure programs and to develop new pathways to licensure.

Leadership Team

Board of Directors

Edward T. Marley: President

John Patrick Rademacher: Vice President

Sylvia Kwan: Second Vice President

Miguel A. Rodriguez: Secretary/Treasurer

Kenneth R. Van Tine: Past President

Thomas D. Lonardo: Director, Region 1

Edward Tucker: Director, Region 2

Catherine C. Morrison: Director, Region 3

Linda Alfson Schemmel: Director, Region 4

James Devine: Director, Region 5

Tian Feng: Director, Region 6

Shannon Himes: Member Board Executive Director

Stephanie V. Hopkins: Public Director

Coffee Polk: At-Large Director

Kevin J. Singh: At-Large Director

Professional Backgrounds and Contributions

The Board of Directors comprises individuals with extensive experience in architectural practice and regulation, each contributing to NCARB's mission through leadership and governance. Specific professional backgrounds and contributions are detailed through NCARB's official communications.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

NCARB operates in a unique position as the central coordinating body for architectural licensure in the United States. Its primary role is regulatory and supportive, rather than competitive. However, it collaborates with various organizations, such as the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB), which accredits architectural education programs, and the Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB), which oversees licensure for landscape architects.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs): NCARB has established MRAs with international counterparts, including the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa, to facilitate reciprocal licensure for architects.

Alliance for Responsible Professional Licensing (ARPL): NCARB is a member of ARPL, a coalition advocating for fair and balanced licensure policies across various professions.

Operational Insights

Strategic Considerations

NCARB's strategic focus includes enhancing the licensure process, expanding pathways to licensure, and fostering collaboration with member boards and industry partners. Its unique position allows it to influence and standardize licensure practices across jurisdictions, ensuring consistency and quality in the architectural profession.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

NCARB's ongoing initiatives aim to streamline the licensure process, increase accessibility, and promote diversity within the profession. Future directions include exploring alternative pathways to licensure, enhancing international reciprocity, and leveraging technology to improve program delivery and candidate support.