Future-proofing is a concept that is found in multiple different industries, though use of the term was uncommon in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry until the past fifteen to twenty years. Future-proofing is a concept that has been developed largely outside the United States and outside the AEC industry. The industries where future-proofing is used include electronics, data storage, utilities systems, industrial design, environmental and ecological design, and energy conservation. Within the AEC industry, the term “future-proofing” is found most often in the sustainable design field. The concepts of future-proofing are more widespread in the AEC industry, but have not been brought together as a coherent approach to projects.