Pre design studies
The design process is generally considered to begin at the concept design stage.
It is preceded by a host of non-design activities, such as business justification, brief development, feasibility studies and options appraisals, and it is followed by design development, technical design, procurement, construction and handover and close out.
Whilst pre-design studies such as feasibility studies and options appraisals may include the prepration of diagrams to assess whether a potential site or building type is possible given the project parameters and constraints, they are not designs. They are intended only to help identify the client's requirements, establish that those requirements are feasible and determine whether the project should proceed in a particular direction.
The concept design represents the design team's initial response to the project brief, and the concept design stage is generally considered to be the most creative stage of a project's development .
For more information see:
- Business justification
- Brief development
- Feasibility studies
- Options appraisals
- Concept design
- Design development
- Technical design
- Procurement
- Construction
- Handover and close out.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
ECA warns growth must not outpace grid capacity or skills.
The role of the client and decision making
CIOB response to built environment professions call for evidence.
Construction's sustainability reporting revolution
Tracking upfront embodied carbon with digital tools.
ECA welcomes procurement reforms
Public spending must back British jobs and skills.
Campaigning for Edinburgh: the Cockburn Association 1875-2049
The role of the civic voice in protecting character. Book review.
CIOB photography competition is open for entries.
ECA Edmundson apprentice of the year award
Finalists announced.
Major new study exposes serious knowledge gaps.
Generating energy from internal light as well as sunshine.
ECA welcomes plans to strengthen subcontractor quality control.
Combining mid-career qualifications with experience broadens career opportunities.
Why being a mentor can help your career.

















