Running a firm in today's landscape isn't just about delivering great design – It's more than that. So, what does it actually take to run a thriving architecture firm in 2026? In this episode of Architect My Business Podcast, host Aya Shlachter breaks down what it really takes to run a firm in 2026, drawing from her recent research of over 200+ architecture firms worldwide. She covers the biggest industry shifts — AI adoption, rising competition, and unstable pipelines — and why most firm owners are underestimating the importance of marketing and business development. Key Takeaways: Referrals aren't enough — consistent visibility and personal branding are essential Pipeline inconsistency is the no. 1 challenge firms face today AI should be embedded in your operations, not used occasionally Relationship capital drives long-term growth and deal-making Intentional, slow leadership beats reactive hustle every time Timestamps: 00:00 – Episode Snippet 00:14 – Welcome to Architect My Business Podcast 02:24 – Running a firm in 2026 and industry shifts 05:06 – Pipeline challenges and the need for systems 06:55 – AI research and global adoption trends 09:06 – Why AI is no longer optional in running a firm 10:21 – ArchiCon 2026 and the vision behind it 13:40 – Top concerns: marketing, AI, and growth 15:20 – Advertisement: MGS Global Group 16:23 – Marketing vs business development 18:04 – Visibility and personal branding 20:31 – Relationship capital and networking 24:03 – AI-assisted operations and efficiency 26:31 – Building a consistent pipeline 29:18 – Designing an intentional firm 32:03 – Aya Alliance and empowering women in business About the Host: Aya Shlachter is the Founder and CEO of MGS Global Group, an architectural support services firm serving hundreds of architecture practices worldwide. With over 18 years of industry experience, she helps firm owners scale smarter, adopt emerging technologies, and build resilient, future-ready practices. Aya also hosts the AI for Architects and Architect My Business podcasts and is the co-founder of ArchiCon 2026, a global architecture business conference. She was named as 2025 Global FWN100™ Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World in the Founder and Pioneer category for her leadership in business and AI. Connect with Aya Shlachter: Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/ This episode is brought to you by - MGS Global Group End to End Architecture Production Revit. AutoCAD. ArchiCAD. 18 years, 500+ firms. Learn more at: mgsglobalgroup.com Architect My Business brings you practical strategies on leadership, people, processes, and profit — so you can grow your firm with clarity and confidence. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale — this podcast covers it all. Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rHAanLV0Kif5WXBajyUes?si=254a55e2877348f9 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/architect-my-business/id1575638268 Website: https://www.architectmybusiness.com/ Connect with Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/architectmybusinesspodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@architectmybusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/architectmybusiness/

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