NCARB recently released the Competency Standard for Architects, which was developed with input from thousands of practicing architects. The Competency Standard establishes 16 knowledge, skills, abilities and behaviors—called competencies—that define the capabilities necessary at the point of architectural licensure.

NCARB is using the Competency Standard to develop and implement updates to its programs and services, including the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®) and Architectural Experience Program (AXP®). The changes will focus on aligning our programs with the competencies defined in the Competency Standard. Changes to the AXP are expected in late 2025-early 2026, while updates to the ARE expected in mid-2026. 

Through our commitment to ensuring candidates are prepared and successful at every level of their architectural career, in a three-part series, we’ll explore each competency domain of the Competency Standard—providing all the details you need to navigate your path to licensure.

Get a head start on understanding the Competency Standard as we work to bring improvements to our programs and services—advancing architectural practice!

Design & Documentation

The Design & Documentation domain focuses on the intelligent, creative, iterative, and culturally and environmentally responsive design process related skills licensure candidates develop. The design process involves research, analysis, and exploration of approaches, ideas, and alternative solutions that lead to a final design proposal.

Competencies required to be successful in this area of architectural practice include:

  1. Assess regulatory design requirements. This competency includes developing the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the regulatory landscape that impacts your projects. This includes aspect of practice related to understanding which authority has jurisdiction over your project, determining which building codes apply to your project, and understanding how to any and all approval processes.
  2. Evaluate existing project conditions. This competency includes developing the ability to assess existing site and building conditions. This includes being able to assess how the budget, risks, planning and zoning policies, and other factors impact a project’s feasibility.
  3. Develop a program that establishes project criteria. The skills and knowledge gained in this competency focus on capturing the necessary information required to  translate your client’s visions and goals into a building program that accounts for technical requirements, feasibility, and community feedback.
  4. Create design solutions that support public and environmental well-being. As part of this competency, you’ll develop the ability to implement design strategies that minimize environmental impact, address sustainability, and support the health, safety, and welfare of the public.
  5. Integrate socio-demographic considerations and universal design principles. This competency includes developing the skills and understanding needed to address diverse cultural, social, and functional considerations into your design solutions.
  6. Create design solutions that address project requirements. As part of this competency, you’ll develop your ability to create designs that meet your program requirements, align with your client’s goals, and manage budgetary concerns.
  7. Create deliverables that convey a design solution. This competency includes developing the skills and knowledge to ensure that your clients, contractors, and other stakeholders understand and can execute your proposed design—both the qualitative and quantitative requirements.
  8. Coordinate the integration of building systems into a project design. As part of this competency, you’ll develop your ability to integrate systems designed by other consultants or specialists into your design and resolve any conflicts that arise.

To explore Design & Documentation and each competency domain further, download the Competency Standard for Architects.