Design development refers to the process of the design team, in collaboration with the Owner, refining the schematic drawings into a more detailed and functional design.  In refining the schematic drawings, Georgia Civil uses the following criteria to facilitate the process.  Is the design:

(1) Accessible – Are building and regulatory requirements satisfied? Does the plan allow for fluid movement by people and vehicles across the space?

(2) Functional – Are elements of the design sound and safe, and does the design meet the spatial needs of its occupants and usage goals of the Client as identified in the program phase?

(3) Aesthetically pleasing – Does the design express a harmonious atmosphere and experience in relation to the community and environment?

(4) Productive – Does the design support the well-being of its occupants? 

(5) Efficient – Is the design cost effective and sustainable over its life cycle?

The role for the client during this phase is to collaborate with the design team to evaluate the design based on the above criteria in effort to make final design decisions.  Georgia Civil encourages the Client to be as involved as possible during this time. Asking informed questions, making suggestions, and remaining in tune with the project will help ensure a successful project. 

Completion of design development drawings allows professionals to make preliminary estimates about the type and amount of materials required to carry out the design. With these quantity estimates, professionals are able to estimate site development costs for preliminary budgeting.  Once these preliminary costs are analyzed, certain design features or elements are refined further – some design solutions may be included, while other solutions are removed in consideration of construction and budget feasibility.  This process, also called the value engineering method, helps ensure that resources will be channeled towards creative solutions that have the highest potential for meeting our clients’ needs at optimum cost.