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Project Managementaka: DDaka: design development phase

Design Development

In Plain English

The phase when architectural plans are developed from rough ideas into detailed, coordinated designs.

Definition

Design development (DD) is the phase of the architectural design process that follows schematic design and precedes construction documents. During DD, the design team refines the building's size, form, systems, and materials, coordinates structural, mechanical, and electrical systems, and prepares drawings and specifications at approximately 50 to 60 percent completion. An updated cost estimate is typically prepared at the end of DD.

Example

The owner approved the mechanical system selection during design development, allowing the engineers to proceed to full construction documents.

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