Architects are increasingly optimistic about future workloads, according to the latest RIBA Future Trends survey.

Figures for March showed the workload index at +11, up from +9 in February, with the majority of regions reporting positive figures – Northern Ireland and the north of England were the exception.

Medium sized practices remain the most positive about future workload levels, returning a balance figure this month of +20, but large practices and small practices are more cautious.

However, the percentage of work in progress on overseas project has fallen to 2%, down from 9% in January 2009.

Adrian Dobson, RIBA director of practice, said:  “We are cautiously hopeful in reporting that for a third consecutive month, the RIBA Future Trends Workload Index has continued its upward path and now stands at +11. However, we remain concerned that despite hope of an export-led recovery; many practices are experiencing difficulties in finding new markets overseas for their services.

“The RIBA remains committed to increasing its overseas presence and promoting British architecture and RIBA members across the world, with a particular focus on the faster growing ‘BRIC’ economies.”