After an initial meeting, project review, and acceptance of a design proposal, all projects start with a site survey where existing conditions are evaluated and documented. If a formal survey is required, outside personnel would be retained to provide this service.

After the fieldwork has been completed, conceptual schemes are developed for review with the client. Although not yet detailed drawings, these plans are illustrated to a level where ideas are clearly communicated and budgets can be outlined.

Once conceptual plans are approved, the design is refined to a comprehensive master plan. A detailed planting schedule would now be included, along with grading instructions, layout lines, hardscape and construction details, material choices, and all necessary specifications. This document would now serve as a tool for final bidding, as well as the plan of record that the contractor(s) would use in the field during construction operations.