If you are in engineering or architecture school, or if you work in another profession, you probably envision that a designer spends their days creatively visioning the next iconic building or engineering solution.  That is what they get trained for in school, after all, and that is what they love to do.

What though, is the reality?  The reality is that there is so much more that has to happen to get a project accomplished, and 95% of that is process, communication, research, and other non-design tasks.  The chart above lists the traditional design phases and the sub-phases that make them up.  A good architect, engineer, or member of their staff makes sure that all these items are taken care of.

Some of these tasks may not seem fun, they may be more mundane, but it helps to recognize them as necessary pieces of the puzzle.  Clients too may be inclined to minimize or overlook some of these steps, but the AE firm must insist on their value.

Sincerely,

David Rothenberg

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