In which phase is the drawing set completed and a contractor selected to construct the building?

• A. Schematic design
• B. Programming
• C. Design development
• D. Contract documentation

Answer: (D)

This phase is about locking in the design and producing the complete set of construction-ready drawings and specifications that a builder will use. When the drawing set is finished in contract documentation, every detail of the project—floor plans, elevations, sections, dimensions, finishes, and other technical requirements—are documented so the project can be built and priced accurately. At this point, the owner can solicit bids and select a contractor based on those documents, since they define exactly what will be constructed and how.

Earlier stages focus on exploring needs and concepts rather than finalizing every detail. Programming establishes requirements and goals; schematic design develops the overall concept and layout with rough drawings; design development refines sizing, systems, and materials, increasing detail but still not the final, binding construction package.