At which stage should coordination specifically begin to align all team members in a project?

Coordination among team members in a project should ideally begin during the pre-agreement phase. This stage is crucial because it sets the foundation for collaboration and communication among all parties involved. At this point, all stakeholders, including architects, contractors, engineers, and clients, can align their expectations, establish roles, and outline the scope of work. Ensuring that everyone is on the same page early helps to prevent misunderstandings and discrepancies later in the project, reducing the likelihood of costly changes or delays during construction. Early coordination also allows for a more integrated approach to design and execution, which can enhance the project’s overall success and efficiency.

While coordination can occur at other stages, starting in the pre-agreement phase establishes a better framework for collaboration throughout the project's lifecycle, allowing for smoother transitions between design development, construction, and post-construction evaluations.