Senior architects across the industry have expressed strong criticism regarding significant price increases implemented by NBS, a leading architectural software company. The backlash has also extended to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) for its decision to sell off its key technology division five years ago.
The controversy centers around what many practitioners view as excessive cost hikes that are placing additional financial strain on architectural firms already facing economic pressures. Industry professionals have voiced concerns that these price increases could impact their ability to access essential design and specification software tools that are crucial for project delivery.
The criticism of RIBA stems from the organization's decision to divest its technology arm, which many architects now view as a strategic mistake. Critics argue that the sale has left the profession more vulnerable to commercial price manipulation and reduced the institute's influence over technology standards that directly affect architectural practice.
Architectural firms, particularly smaller practices, are expressing frustration with the timing of these price increases amid ongoing economic uncertainties in the construction industry. Many are questioning whether the current pricing structure reflects fair market value or represents opportunistic pricing by software providers.
The situation highlights broader concerns within the architectural community about the increasing commercialization of essential professional tools and the potential impact on practice accessibility. Industry observers suggest this controversy may prompt discussions about alternative software solutions and the need for more competition in the architectural technology market.
