At Spaulding Communications, we help manufacturers think beyond tactics and focus on long-term impact. With 2026 approaching, Agency President and Founder Matt Spaulding shared the following LinkedIn post, offering a practical checklist to help brands create CEU courses that build credibility, visibility, and lasting value with architects and designers.

I don’t know about you, but I really like check-lists. Especially at this time of year when things get so busy. So, as 2026 approaches, here is a check-list for manufacturers to consider when it comes to creating new CEU courses for architects or designers.

CEUs are an effective way for manufacturing brands to establish their thought leadership, gain credibility, and consistently be in front of architects and designers. But there is plenty to consider to ensure the CEU you create makes a lasting impact.

Manufacturers that can check these boxes will experience a smoother process and an enhanced return on their CEU investment.

1. Know Your Audience

Architects and designers get their credits from different professional organizations. Know if your CEU is aimed at architects or designers to hone in on your message. And to make sure you work with the right architect or design organization.

2. Have Compelling Content

Before you start, look at what existing CEUs in the marketplace might be similar to what you’re considering. Like any presentation, you want your audience to be moved by new and fresh material. This will go far in setting your brand apart.

3. Include Strong Visuals

Nothing tells a story like great pictures. And nothing can damage a presentation like poor visuals or graphics. Be sure the images you select and include are high quality and aligned with your brand’s visual language.

4. Select the Right Format

CEU content can be delivered in various ways: in-person, on-demand (video or article), or virtual. Consider what format would be best for your course, your presenters, and how your audience might best engage with it.

5. Market & Promote It

Once completed and approved, your CEU will languish if there is no marketing to promote it. Like a new product launch, think of all the different ways you can market it to gain visibility and spark sign-ups for it.

6. Train Your People

Carefully consider who will be delivering your CEU and get them trained. If your presenters (i.e. instructors) are not speaking with authority and passion, that will have negative consequences for your brand.

7. Set a Schedule & Deadline

Developing a solid CEU and getting internal approvals can be a complex and time-intensive undertaking. But it does not have to be. Set a schedule with clear benchmarks to keep the process and the team on track.

8. Use a Small Internal Team

See #7; the smaller your team, the quicker the process.

9. Consider HSW Designation

IDCEC’s Health, Safety, and Welfare (HSW) designation means that 75% or more of the presentation is related to this topic. Some organizations, like AIA, require that their members’ CEU credits have this designation.

10. Plan for More

A CEU is typically valid for two years. So, you should be thinking beyond just one. In fact, CEUs should be a built-in part of your marketing and sales strategy.

Hope this check-list helps! Happy CEU development!

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