The evolution process he describes is one that developed out ofa "recognition of a steady and subtle shift from servicing ownersto servicing users of space." Additionally, moves to globalizationand increasing complexities of the needs of tenants, has increasedthe breadth of services firms need to provide. Lowery says theoperations of the consolidated businesses were "free standing, silofashion," and needed to "deliver services holistically."

When asked to respond to observers who might speculate that theconsolidation was a means of becoming more cost effective and areaction to the downturn of the market, he says, "that didn't enterinto it for us." He says their focus was only on their clients."You don't get to where we are chintzing on finances or nickle anddiming," he emphasizes. He also notes the company has "lead thecharge" in each of its services.

"We're not just taking our resources upstream, but backfilling.Our brokers are tops and will continue to be the core of ouroperations. What we're doing is allocating some of our capabilitiesto support them," he explains, "and at the same time taking oursophisticated professionals from the four businesses and bringingthem together to stand on their own as equals to our brokers."