In the United States, the requirements to become an architect are often described as a three legged stool. These three legs, also known as the "three E's", are (in alphabetical order):

• Education (usually a NAAB degree)
• Examination (the ARE)
• Experience (usually IDP)

The legs support the profession in different ways, offer a system of checks and balances, and work together towards a common purpose-developing highly competent architects. If one of the legs is missing or weak, the process collapses.

The reality is that, in most states, the legs are not organized in non-hierarchical "stool like" circle, but in a very hierarchical linear pattern. Indeed, the legs are more like those of a relay race-experience follows education, and examination follows experience--than those of a stool.

In a relay race, the first leg (starter) and the last leg (anchor) are the clearest. The same is true in our discipline.

For "education", NAAB refines student performance criteria through a rigorous validation process. Architecture programs are regularly reviewed through systematic self studies and external reviews. Schools' accreditation terms are publicly posted.

For "examination", NCARB develops architect registration exam (ARE) specifications through extensive practice analyses. The process is further refined by cut score studies and regular monitoring. Pass rates on the exam are regularly posted.

For "experience", the process for validating, analyzing, and monitoring the intern development program (IDP) is much less clear.

Our discipline should move away from a three legged relay race, to a three legged stool. In the latter model, each of the E's has the same degree of importance. Future architects would be able to pursue education, experience, and examination concurrently, or in any order. Accountability, quality and ownership of internship will surely improve, as experience will no longer be the forgotten middle leg.