Know who is doing what, before the work begins
A clear appointment and responsibility record help connect creative decisions, specialist input and the next stage of work.
Turn a service description into a defined scope
A website can introduce a way of working, but the appointment should explain the actual services for your project. List the deliverables, their intended purpose, review points and the information each stage depends on. Distinguish concept studies from technical information and identify any services being provided by others. Ask who will maintain the drawing list and record agreed changes. Clarity here supports collaboration: everyone can see what is being prepared, what decisions are needed and what remains unresolved before the work is used for its next purpose.
Identify specialists and statutory roles
A project may need structural, building-services, fire-safety or other specialist input according to its scope. In England, building-regulations duties and competence requirements also need to be understood. The principal-designer role under Building Regulations and the role under CDM concern different responsibilities; a project should identify which applies and who is suitable to fulfil it. Do not assume that a general design appointment automatically covers every role. Equally, a narrow service description does not remove duties arising from actual design work or control. Confirm the project arrangements with appropriately competent advisers.
Keep coordination visible as the project changes
Create a simple responsibility record with one line for each important output or decision: who prepares it, who contributes, who reviews it and when it is needed. Include information arriving from suppliers as well as the main design team. When the brief changes, revisit the record so that new work does not fall between appointments. Agree how queries and conflicting information will be resolved. This practical record does not replace contracts or statutory obligations; it helps the people involved understand the interfaces and recognise when further advice or an additional appointment is needed.
Zink field notes · 23 October 2026 · General project guidance; the brief and site conditions need individual review.