Client requirements
The client's requirements for a project might initially include a vision, mission and objectives for what they wish the project to achieve. They might first be explored by a client when they identify a need which might result in the requirement for a certain equilibrium that has been neutralised and factored into the equation.
A statement of need, might then be prepared which is a first attempt to describe the possible requirements of the project. This may or may not result in the development of a new project.
See Statement of need for more information.
If the project does proceed, the client may then develop their requirements into a strategic brief. Initially, this just describes the client's requirements in sufficient detail to allow the appointment of consultants (such as an architect, engineers and so on). Once consultants are appointed, the strategic brief may be developed further to allow feasibility studies and options appraisals to be carried out.
See Strategic brief for more information.
Once the preferred option for the project has been selected, the strategic brief is typically developed into a full project brief. This is the key document upon which the design will be based.
See Project brief for more information
- The RIBA Plan of Work 2020 suggests that the client requirements are: 'A statement or document that defines the Project Outcomes and sets out what the client is seeking to achieve. It is used to develop the Business Case, which examines any viable options that meet the Client Requirements.' It goes on to suggest that: 'The Client Requirements set out what the client is trying to achieve. For example, two residential clients might have the same Spatial Requirements (say, a new kitchen and an extra bedroom); however, one might be about to sell their property and is looking to increase its sale price while the other has a new baby and wants to consolidate their position close to good local schools. While the Spatial Requirements for both clients are the same, it is unlikely that their desired Project Outcomes will be the same, so a different Business Case and Project Budget is required for each. The Client Requirements allow the project team to explore viable options, determine the pros and cons for each and, ultimately, recommend the option best suited to deliver the Client Requirements. When this recommendation constitutes a project, and it is signed off by the client, the more nuanced and detailed Project Brief can be prepared.'
- The term 'Employer's requirements' refers to the formal client's requirements on design and build projects or on a traditional contract where the contractor is to design discrete parts of the works. See Employer's requirements for more information.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Definition of Statutory in workplace and facilities management
Established by IWFM, BESA, CIBSE and BSRIA.
The general election and the construction industry
As PM, Rishi Sunak announces July 4 date for an election.
Tackling the lack of knowledge or confidence in heat pumps
The CICV Green Home Festival part of the Edinburgh Fringe.
Home improvements swapped for green energy upgrades
As applications down since and desire to reduce bills up.
Eco apprenticeships continue help grow green workforce
A year after being recognised at the King's coronation.
The Use of Natural Insulation Materials in Retrofit
New paper from STBA with support from SDF.
National Retrofit Hub in partnership with InstallerSHOW.
Permitted development rights for agricultural buildings
The changes coming into effect as of May 21, 2024.
Biodiversity and the built environment digital series
The nature of building, with CIOB and CWP.
A call for prevention and sensitive re-use.
Risks to the long-term effectiveness of the BNG scheme
National Audit Office publish review of Biodiversity Net Gain.
The CIAT principal designer register
Providing assurance and verification of the capability and competence of registered ATs.
Building Safety recommendations and Northern Ireland
The NI roadmap to improving safety in high rise residential.
Specifying rendered external wall insulation for fire safety
How to interrogate the evidence provided to the specifier.
The benefits of writing articles for your organisation
How to create a profile for your organisation and publish for free.
Scottish Government action to reach net-zero targets
Retrofit expert group highlight critical actions needed.
A forward thinking, inclusive global community of members.