While the rankings shuffled this year for many firms on RECORD's annual list, the number one firm held fast to its position at the top for the seventh consecutive year.

This special section, which also serves as Continuing Education, examines firms of varying sizes and the challenges—and opportunities—that they face today.

Meet the top emerging firms, all established fewer than 10 years ago, that are beginning to make their mark on the profession with smart and striking projects.

To lead the profession, firms must nimbly respond to and embrace technological changes.

Designers meet the second coming of artificial intelligence.

Robert Silman, president emeritus of engineering firm Silman, argues for less dependence on computers when working on structural analysis and design.

Architects must change the profession's value proposition and find new ways to do business, writes Phil Bernstein.

Close relationships with clients, value-added service, an emphasis on design quality, a collegial work atmosphere—the appeals of small firms have lured many architects into opening up shop.

Transitioning from a small studio to a midsize firm often entails an exponential increase in overhead—in some cases supporting multiple locations.