What is one of the architect's responsibilities during the Schematic Design phase?

During the Schematic Design phase, one of the primary responsibilities of an architect is to prepare a preliminary evaluation of the Owner's program. This process involves reviewing and analyzing the owner's needs and requirements, which are outlined in the program documents. The architect works to ensure that the design will address the goals and objectives set forth by the owner while also aligning with functional and spatial requirements. This preliminary evaluation serves as a foundation for developing design concepts and solutions that meet the project’s budget and schedule.

This phase is critical because it allows for early communication and clarification between the architect and the owner, promoting a clear understanding of expectations and design intents. By engaging with the owner's program at this stage, the architect can identify potential challenges and opportunities for innovation, which can greatly influence the project's overall direction.

In contrast, tasks such as preparing the project manual or written specifications typically occur later in the design process, while submission of final drawings for approval happens after the design has been fully developed and refined, moving into later phases such as Design Development or Construction Documents.