As a result the economic downturn, architectural and engineering firms have relied increasingly on incentive compensation to retain and reward high-performing employees and to attract new talent, according to ZweigWhite’s 2010 Incentive Compensation survey.

The survey from consulting firm ZweigWhite, which has an office in Natick, found nearly two-thirds of architectural and engineering firms expect incentive compensation spending either to remain the same or to increase this year. Only 14 percent expect a decrease in 2010, according to a statement.

"During the past two years, most A/E firms experienced staff turnover at a higher rate than at any time in the past decade," said John Soter, principal, ZweigWhite strategic advisory services. "Many were forced to lay off staff, reduce hours or have furloughs. Thus, balancing fixed compensation with more variable, incentive-based components is a proven approach to rewarding and retaining the top performers."