Development / Project Brief Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is a brief?
A brief is a document that outlines a client’s requirements, expectations, constraints, and objectives for a project. It forms the foundation for design, procurement, and delivery.
Why is a client brief important?
It provides a clear statement of need and direction, ensuring all stakeholders understand the scope, objectives, budget, and timeline from the outset. It aligns the project team and supports successful outcomes.
What are the different types of briefs?
a. Client Brief – Outlines client requirements, expectations, quality, cost, and time parameters.
b. Development Brief – Sets out the rationale for a development, considering viability, planning context, and expected returns (developer-focused).
c. Strategic Brief / Project Brief – Developed from the client brief. Provides sufficient detail to appoint consultants, initiate design, and start procurement.
What are the typical sections/content of a brief?
Project objectives (time, cost, quality, sustainability)
Functional requirements and accommodation schedule
Site information
Budget and funding constraints
Programme and phasing
Key stakeholders
Design quality aspirations
Regulatory and planning requirements
Risk considerations
Procurement strategy (if known)
Who typically prepares a project or client brief?
The client, although they may appoint a consultant such as a project manager or development manager to develop it on their behalf.
Who would you consult when developing a project brief?
Client and key stakeholders
End users / operators
Planning consultants
Commercial teams
Facilities management (FM) teams
Design team (e.g., architect, engineers)
Cost consultant / QS
How do you ensure the brief is met over the course of the project?
Regular design team meetings
Use of a design tracker
End-of-stage reports with client sign-off
Robust change control to manage scope creep
Continuous reference to the brief during reviews and design gateways
Where are the key aspects of a brief recorded for a project?
In the Project Execution Plan (PEP)
Within the Strategic/Project Brief document
Referenced in the design tracker and change control log
What is a PEP (Project Execution Plan)?
A PEP is a formal management document that outlines how the project will be delivered, covering scope, roles, processes, and controls.
What does a PEP contain?
Project scope and objectives
Project team roles and responsibilities
Programme and milestones
Risk management strategy
Communication protocol
Quality assurance procedures
Design management approach
Change control process
Reporting structures
Have you ever made a PEP?
(Answer based on experience)
Yes, I’ve contributed to and reviewed PEPs on projects like [insert project name]. My role included inputting scope details, team structure, and design coordination procedures.
How would you establish a client’s objectives?
By holding structured briefing meetings, asking targeted questions, using checklists (e.g., RICS Client Briefing Meeting Checklist), and confirming objectives around time, cost, quality, sustainability, and functionality.
Does the RICS provide any guidance on clients and briefs?
Yes – the RICS Client Briefing Checklist is a useful tool that supports the structured gathering of client requirements and objectives.
What is a feasibility study?
A feasibility study is an early-stage assessment that tests whether a proposed scheme is viable in terms of planning, technical design, cost, and financial return. It’s usually carried out during RIBA Stage 1 or before.
What does a feasibility report contain?
Site constraints and planning context
Outline design options
Cost estimates
Programme feasibility
Construction logistics
Market conditions
Development appraisal (if relevant)
What is a development appraisal?
A financial model used to assess the viability of a development project, showing whether it meets return expectations after accounting for all costs and revenues.
What does a development appraisal include?
Site acquisition cost
Construction and professional fees
Planning contributions (CIL, S106)
Marketing and finance costs
Developer’s return / profit
Gross Development Value (GDV)
The key outcome is the expected developer profit.
What is a business case?
A business case is a document that justifies investment in a project by setting out its strategic need, expected benefits, costs, risks, and funding requirements. It’s often used to secure internal or external funding.
When in the RIBA Plan of Work would you typically prepare a project brief?
The Project Brief is typically developed during RIBA Stage 1 – Preparation and Brief, following initial consultation in Stage 0.
