1. Schematic Design Developing a Design Plan The major difference between an untrained designer and a skilled expert is the expert depends upon a “flow chart” or sequential outline for a project. May 2010

2. To gain a client’s confidence and to assure your success in completion of a project, you must have a plan Good Design Requires a Plan

3. Identify the project • Assess the client characteristics • Analyze the environment • Develop a preliminary budget • Compile a design resource file • Plan use of space • Choose a style and color scheme • Select backgrounds, furniture, lighting, and accessories • Present the design • Make changes based on client input • Implement the design Steps in the Design Process

4. The sequence of steps, even for a small project, is the same for a large project. The difference is the amount of interaction the clients usually have with each step. • What is the goal? • What do they want to accomplish? • What is your budget? • How knowledgeable is the client about what their needs are? • What is the time frame to complete the project? • What is the client’s current credit situation? • Write or adjust a letter of agreement or contract and secure client signature Step 1Identify the Project

5. Success will result from understanding the clients needs. • Lifestyle • Entertainment • Hobbies • Study/work areas • Atmosphere • Formal/informal • Rustic/contemporary/traditional • Color preferences • Future Considerations • Pets, growing family, empty nesters, long-term guests Step 2Assess The client characteristics

6. How will the following be impacted in the design process? • Inventory the existing space • Activities/services space will provide • Storage areas • Background spaces (flooring, walls, windows lighting) • Furnishings and accessories • Measure space and furniture Step 3Analyze the Environment

7. A Cost Estimate must be presented to client and include the following • Cost of item including shipping cost • Vendor supplying item • Delivery times (estimated) • Contingency Fee • Design Services Fee Step 4Develop a Preliminary Budget

8. You must be able to convey to the client the final project to their satisfaction before placing an order. • Photos • Brochures • Paint/wallpaper/carpet samples • Large projects may require trips to showrooms or manufacturers headquarters Step 5Resource File

9. Every room starts with a blank canvas. Satisfaction will result in how you use the space in your design. • Floor Plans • Elevations Step 6Plan the Use of space

10. Now it’s time to create a space that reflects your clients style and your expertise. This will have the greatest visual impact on the room • Style (formal vs. informal • Color Schemes Step 7Choose a Style and Color Scheme

11. Choosing colors, patterns and textures to use are the factors that will have a great impact on the atmosphere the space will reflect • Floors • Walls • Furniture • Windows • Accessories Step 8Select Backgrounds

12. Once you have chosen items from the previous steps you will complete the cost estimate with actual prices of items selected. Create a completed budget for design project Step 8 (part 2)Completing the Budget

13. Final presentation to client will allow you to convey your ideas visually. • Renderings • Sample Boards • Computer Presentations • Models • CAD Step 9Present the Design

14. The Timeline If you want to work with this client and keep their trust/business this step is critical • When must the project be complete? • Installations • Placing orders • How do you handle delays? • Final sign off Step 10Implement the Design

15. Congratulations! On a job well done What are the benefits? Satisfaction!