Certified Facility Manager (CFM) Practice Exam

What is the first design phase of a hotel construction project called?

1. Conceptual design

2. Schematic design

3. Final design

4. Development design

The correct answer is: Schematic design

The first design phase of a hotel construction project is referred to as the conceptual design phase. This phase focuses on establishing the project's overall vision and purpose, allowing designers and stakeholders to explore ideas and requirements essential to the project's success. During this phase, critical factors such as target audience, project scope, and preliminary budgeting are considered. The goal is to create a rough outline of the design, addressing the basic layout, functionality, and aesthetic aspects of the hotel. At this stage, various concepts can be proposed, and multiple ideas can be evaluated to ensure alignment with the overall vision. Input from stakeholders is crucial to refine these concepts, which will later inform the more detailed schematic design phase. Other phases like schematic design provide a more refined layout based on the initial concepts, while final design focuses on the detailed specifications and construction documents. Development design typically refers to further advancement of the project post-schematic stage. Thus, the correct identification of the first design phase as conceptual design highlights its foundational importance in the hotel construction process.