What must the client do during the Design Development (DD) phase?

During the Design Development (DD) phase, the client plays a crucial role in reviewing and approving the design. This phase is characterized by the refinement of the initial design concepts into detailed plans that include materials, systems, and overall aesthetic considerations. The client’s review is vital because it ensures that the design aligns with their needs, goals, and vision for the project. Their approval at this stage is necessary before moving forward to the next phase, which typically involves the preparation of construction documents.

In this context, while it is essential for activities like site surveys, environmental audits, and budget allocations to be addressed during the project life cycle, they do not specifically define the client's responsibilities during the DD phase. Site surveys are typically authorized earlier in the process, environmental audits may be conducted as part of the project's due diligence prior to design refinement, and budget discussions can occur throughout the project timeline but are part of broader financial planning rather than a specific task in this design phase. Hence, the primary focus during Design Development is on the client's engagement with and approval of the evolving design.