This episode is sparked by a simple question that opened a much bigger reflection: why Conspectus started, and how it became what it is today as the firm enters its 33rd year. David Stutzman shares how the company was born out of economic uncertainty in the early 1990s, when necessity, planning, and a leap of faith converged into a new specification practice. The conversation traces the firm’s evolution from a one-person operation to a multi-disciplinary team, highlighting how organic growth, culture fit, and relationships shaped that journey. It also explores the intentional five-year succession plan with Steve Gantner and Elias Saltz, now nearing completion.... showing how shared leadership has eased pressure while sustaining momentum. The discussion ties growth, technology, and people together as drivers of more resilient firms and better project outcomes.
Industry insight: Independent specification consulting has matured from solo practices into scalable, collaborative firms.
Practice takeaway: Sustainable growth often comes from relationships and timing, not rigid expansion plans.
Process lesson: Gradual succession planning allows knowledge transfer without overwhelming new leadership.
Risk or opportunity: Investing in internal tools can evolve into platforms that strengthen both services and business development.
People & culture: Hiring for fit and capability, rather than preset criteria, builds resilient and diverse teams.