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85 Appraiser dissatisfaction stems from a single fact: appraisers don't trust technology they can't understand. Most valuation systems use regression or artificial intelligence, and to comprehend either fully requires a level of expertise that is beyond those without dedicated statistical training. lenders were displeased with the results, and ten years later fewer than half of all appraisers indicate they plan to invest in valuation technology. In fact, nearly 70% of appraisers cite dissatisfaction with data-driven valuation models as a major industry concern. Appraiser dissatisfaction stems from a single fact: appraisers don't trust technology they can't understand. Most valuation systems use regression or artificial intelligence, and to comprehend either fully requires a level of expertise that is beyond those without dedicated statistical training. is problem translates to discomfort in the lending community as well. One lender expressed it this way: "If an appraisal user can't understand how an appraiser arrived at a value conclusion, and if the appraiser cannot adequately explain the process, the product is worthless." An appropriate tool for appraisers must be built around traditional appraisal methodology so it can be both understood and defended. It must allow for meaningful interaction by the appraiser, with safeguards to protect against appraiser fraud. Finally, the report, regardless of type—must be the product of the appraiser, and not a "black box." ere is a reality inherent to valuation technology that is overlooked. Different methodologies and techniques are appropriate for different products. No one solution is best for all assignments. For example, pure automated valuation systems (AVMs) are most appropriate for portfolio valuation. e precise value of any given property in a portfolio is often less important than the value of the entire portfolio. Consequently, if some individual valuations are off the mark, results are deemed dependable as long as the mean error (average of all errors) is small. is approach is less than desirable if the accuracy of each value conclusion is paramount. In the case of individual appraisal assignments, minimizing error is critical, and the best results can be obtained by combining intuitive technology with individual knowledge and expertise. It is time for appraisal organizations to consider implementing appropriate technology, designed for use by appraisers, and managing the valuation process to take maximum advantage of both system strengths and individual capabilities. As the integration of valuation technology by appraisal organizations proliferates, standardization will be key. It is difficult to fathom how any appraisal group can represent it is better than any other without standardization of process and standardization of product. Technology imposes a degree of standardization which can be maximized with training. Appraisers have a deep-seated aversion to valuation technology, but they need not, as long as they adopt technology that works for them. With the proper tools they will be able to compete in this changing world—they will be able to adapt to assignments that require less than complete inspections and nontraditional methodologies, such as evaluations, without disrupting their production of traditional appraisal products. e way we were is not the way we will be. It is time for appraisal organizations to prepare. Mark L. Stockton began both appraising real estate and banking in the late 1960s. As president of a community bank in the mid '70s, he designed and developed the nation's first comprehensive bank software. It would ultimately be used by one out of every three banks in the U.S. With the help of the University of New Mexico economics department and a renowned real estate litigation firm, Stockton developed the country's first computerized residential valuation system in 1981, which produced automated valuations (AVMs), appraiser assisted valuations, traditional appraisals, and evaluations. An automated tax assessment system was added shortly thereafter.