How do you oversee environmental design from start to finish?

1 Define the scope

The first step is to define the scope of your project, which includes the purpose, objectives, deliverables, budget, timeline, and stakeholders. You need to have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve, how you will measure your success, and what resources and constraints you have. You also need to communicate with your clients, partners, and other stakeholders to align your expectations and establish a shared vision. A well-defined scope will help you avoid scope creep, manage risks, and prioritize tasks.

2 Research and analyze

The next step is to research and analyze the site, the users, and the context of your project. You need to gather relevant data and information that will inform your design decisions and help you identify opportunities and challenges. You can use various methods and tools, such as site visits, surveys, interviews, observations, mapping, modeling, benchmarking, and SWOT analysis. You should also review existing policies, regulations, standards, and best practices that apply to your project. The research and analysis phase will help you gain insights and create a solid foundation for your design.

3 Generate and evaluate

The third step is to generate and evaluate possible design solutions that address the scope and the research findings. You need to use your creativity and skills to explore different ideas and concepts, using sketches, diagrams, mood boards, storyboards, or other visual tools. You should also consider the environmental, social, and economic aspects of your design, such as energy efficiency, accessibility, safety, diversity, and resilience. You need to evaluate your design solutions against the criteria and requirements of the scope, the users, and the site, and select the best one or a combination of them.

4 Develop and refine

The fourth step is to develop and refine your selected design solution, using more detailed and technical tools and methods. You need to produce drawings, specifications, models, renderings, or prototypes that illustrate your design in detail and show how it will work in reality. You should also test and validate your design, using feedback, simulations, or experiments. You need to refine your design based on the results and make sure it meets the standards and expectations of the scope, the users, and the site.

5 Implement and monitor

The fifth step is to implement and monitor your design solution, which involves coordinating and overseeing the construction, installation, or operation of your project. You need to work with contractors, suppliers, engineers, or other professionals who will execute your design according to your plans and specifications. You should also monitor the progress and quality of the work, using inspections, reports, or reviews. You need to solve any problems or issues that arise during the implementation phase and ensure that your design is delivered on time and on budget.

6 Review and improve

The final step is to review and improve your design solution, which involves evaluating and measuring the performance and outcomes of your project. You need to collect and analyze data and feedback from the users, the site, and the environment, using surveys, interviews, observations, metrics, or indicators. You should also compare the actual results with the expected results and identify any gaps or areas for improvement. You need to learn from your experience and apply your findings and recommendations to your future projects or to improve your current project.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?