Design and construction projects typically involve several steps or phases. These may include programming, schematic design, construction documents, bidding, or negotiation with contractors. However, on some projects several of these steps may be combined. On others, there may be additional phases involved. The architect's involvement normally does not stop with the preparation of construction documents.
Architects also provide construction administration services.
These services may include assisting you in hiring the contractor, making site visits, reviewing and approving the contractor's applications for payment, and keeping you informed of the project's progress. The secret to success is effective project management by both owner and architect. The importance of the owner's involvement cannot be overemphasized. All told, the path to successful results is paved with many challenges and uncertainty. There are literally hundreds of decisions to be made, decisions which have a strong impact on how the project looks and functions over time.