Architectural precast concrete products are those precast concrete units of custom-designed or occasionally standard shape and size that, through either application, finish, shape, color or texture, contribute to the architectural effect of a structure. The major marketing emphasis for architectural precast concrete products is generally on the custom designed unit. However, there is an increasing trend toward marketing standard architectural precast wall panels by some producers in the context of giving the owner/developer a building shell. These producers have recognized that an owner/developer does not want a panel or a wall per se; what really interests him is a usable building. In the framework of responding to several questions, three producers here discuss their products and approaches to delivering a standard product with design flexibility which satisfies the needs of the owner/developer. In addition, an architectural firm discusses how it responded to a client's needs by designing a standard panel.
