TABLE OF CONTENTS Schematic design focuses on the development and refinement of the concept design and results in an interim blueprint for subsequent detailed design efforts. During this phase of study, a selected concept plan is subjected to more detailed analysis in terms of usable area and potential yields. Activity may include a formal presentation to public bodies and regulatory agencies to obtain concurrence with the site design strategy. This phase represents a major benchmark in the design process in its testing and confirmation of development intent. In view of the increasing complexity of the public review process and the costs associated with more detailed design, public review at this phase of the land development design process is extremely important. It is a sound business practice to keep public decision makers abreast of a development proposal whenever practical. If there are to be political or procedural obstacles to the plan, it is best for them to surface early in the design process. Jurisdictions increasingly require various types of interim submissions prior to the completion of final site plan documents: schematic-level designs are not uncommon requirements for public-sector review and approvals.
The schematic or master development plan is the design document that establishes many of the controlling standards and design characteristics for actual project-level development. Extensive studies are normally completed to ensure that the proposed development program is realistic in terms of density, product yield, functional...
