Project Development

When undertaking a major project the entire global aspects of the project can appear to be extremely daunting. However once the project is broken down into stages and these stages further broke down and simplified, the "road map" and decision making soon becomes much clearer, opening up a methodical objective decision making process.
Consider the following heading in evaluating and deciding on your project best path.

Inception
Consider project and it's viability in relation to location, cost and achieving end goal.
Wright down your main objectives, evaluate them and identify your goals
Consider possible budgets or budget restrictions
Tender and appoint Architect.
Seek Architects advise on any further appointment for the Design team and at what stages this should be finalised.

Feasibility
Rather than jumping head first into a project you should carry out a feasibility study on your proposal and evaluate the results of this prior to committing yourself to proceeding. The study should include elements of a b & c below.

Outline Proposal- Scheme Design
Design scheme layout to identify achievable sq. footage for development, and how all ancillary facilities car parking, drainage disposal etc can be efficiently designed into the scheme taking account of development guidelines for the area

Detail Design
After approval of scheme design/feasibility study a detail design identifying more accurately layouts, elevations etc is prepared, sometimes in conjunction with other consultant engineers who will have a detailed input at a later stage

Planning Permission
Documents required include detailed design drawings, site surveys and site layouts showing surrounding developments etc. All information as requested on application form plus any other unsolicited information deemed relative to the development.

Product Information
Research the materials and finishes available, and identify those best suited to your project taking into account, method of construction, cost and finishes and image that are intended to be projected

Bill Of Quantities
Projects regardless of size will require some type of cost management. This on small projects can be kept to a simple form, and on larger projects involve a full priced Bill of Quantities which firstly ensures that client is aware of projected costs prior to tender action therefore can review project and materials to accommodate budget prior to inviting for tender. The Bill of Quantities also give accurate cost management during construction of project.

Tender Action
Having established every aspect of design, material uses and finishes of the project the Architect invites for competitive tenders from suitable contractors, examines tender and tenderer to ensure that all details are include and that tenderer is reputable and capable

Project Planning
The Architect is your project administrator and ensures that design team is informed and up to date, health and safety aspects are in place, Clerk of works, supervision, inspection methods, monitoring and regular meetings are sufficient to properly coordinate the project.

Operations On Site
The design team closely coordinate with the supervision staff on site to ensure that the scope of the works, materials in use and workmanship are all to the required standard and programmes for completion are being adhered to etc

Completion
Procedures at completions include final inspections & snag lists, Certifications, Final accounts and issuing of final certifications

Job Records
Handing over of all relevant job records, "As built" drawings etc.