The Architecture Billings Index, an economic indicator of nonresidential construction activity, showed growth for the 11th consecutive month in November, according to The American Institute of Architects. Because of the approximately six-month lag time between billings for architectural services and construction activity, nonresidential construction activity is expected to be a strong economic sector in much of 2006.

"It is especially noteworthy that if architecture firms report even modest billings gains in December, 2005 will be the first year since 2000 that gains were reported every month of the year," said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker. "We are expecting improved business conditions for construction firms that specialize in commercial/industrial, as well as institutional projects."

The index predicts continued improvement in business conditions for U.S. architecture firms in the Northeast and Midwest, and firms in the South and West will have moderate growth levels. For more information, go to http://www.aia.org