A method for manufacturing an electrochromic element comprises providing a first substrate having first and second surfaces and a first edge surface, providing a second substrate having third and fourth surfaces and a second edge surface, the third surfaces facing the second surface, providing an electrochromic medium located between the first and second substrates, the medium having a light transmittance that is variable upon application of electric field thereto, applying a conductive layer on a portion of at least one of the surfaces, wherein applying the layer is accomplished at substantially atmospheric pressure, and applying at least one of metallic particles, an organometallic, a metallo-organic, and combinations thereof, wherein the conductive layer has a bulk resistivity of greater than or equal to 150 μΩ·cm. The conductive layer may be applied via ink jetting, ultrasonic spraying, auger or jet pumping.