What Do SD, DD & CD Stand for in Construction?

Construction is a culmination of different disciplines coming together to create an infrastructure that is functional and aesthetic at the same time. Let’s take a look at the various construction design stages that are crucial in construction documentation.

Pre-Design: Research and Space Planning

Creating structures that are habitable involves a lengthy process, and one that cannot afford any room for errors.

Before actual construction begins for a structure, it has to go through cycles of amendments and changes, typically done over software such as CAD.

Schematic Design (SD), Design Development (DD) and Construction Documentation (CD) are stages in CAD drafting to ensure that the budget and vision of the client and architects reach an arrangement that can be well executed.

The SD, DD and CD sets cover the construction design documentation phase.

What are Schematic Design Sets or SD in Construction?

This is the first part of the construction design stages. A project begins with conceptual design and then moves into schematic design (SD), wherein the concepts are translated into physical drawings.

These design development sets change many times to accommodate project requirements, client-requested modifications, and licensing authority guidelines before becoming approved for construction.

Schematic design is fairly conceptual in nature; it doesn’t go into much detail. The design will lay out the site and interior spaces, and develop a basic exterior.

Essential Tasks of Schematic Design Drawings

There are Four other processes that the design team will focus on. These are crucial in understanding the placement and compatibility of a building in its location. Without a firm knowledge of these aspects there can be several implications to the construction process.

• Site Analysis: Studying topography, orientation, climate, zoning codes, and the surrounding environment to determine the building’s best placement and compatibility.

• Programming: Defining the project’s requirements, functions, and objectives, including space planning, budget goals, and client expectations.

• Client Collaboration: Engaging with the client for feedback and revisions, ensuring the design direction aligns with their vision before moving to the next stage.

• Conceptual Design: Developing early sketches, diagrams, and digital massing models to explore the building’s overall look, feel, and spatial relationships.

Key Deliverables of Schematic Drawing (SD) in Construction

The schematic design and development phase produces initial architectural design documentation that lays the foundation for detailed design development. The key deliverables of Schematic Design set include:

• Preliminary site and floor plans

• Building sections

• Exterior elevations

• Conceptual sketches and diagrams

• Massing models (physical or digital)

• 3D visualizations/renderings

• Description of building elements

Benefits of the Schematic Design Construction Documents

• Early problem-solving: Issues are spotted and resolved before they escalate into expensive changes later.

• Stakeholder alignment: Clear visuals and sketches get clients and consultants on the same page early.

• Concept exploration: Architects can test multiple layouts, aesthetics, and design options before committing.

• Feasibility check: Site conditions, codes, and zoning are reviewed to confirm the project is realistic.

• Budget control: Preliminary cost estimates help clients adjust scope or priorities at an affordable stage.

• Client collaboration: Regular reviews ensure the design reflects client expectations and reduces miscommunication.

• Sustainability considerations: Energy use, daylighting, and materials can be factored in from the start.

• Tech-enabled insights: Digital models, BIM, and AI tools support better, data-driven design decisions.

Applications of the Schematic Design (SD) Phase in Construction

• Serves as the foundation for the project, evolving into Design Development (DD)

• Finalizes key decisions on building layout and form

• Prepares a narrative describing systems (HVAC, Electrical, M&E) and estimating costs

• Helps clients visualize the project

• Supports permit discussions

• Provides a basis for cost estimation

• Assists in early contractor input

• Guides subsequent design phases and aligns the project with client goals

Challenges of the Schematic Design (SD) Phase

The SD phase can involve multiple iterations, which may cause delays if client feedback or regulatory requirements are unclear. Additionally, conceptual uncertainties at this stage can lead to costly revisions later if not addressed properly.

What are Design Development Sets or DD in Construction?

During Design Development phase, the designer advances the design significantly. The main goal of DD phase is to define and develop the important aspects of the project.

The exterior, interior layouts, room sizes, and materials are more fully designed. The engineers and architects will further develop the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems ensuring that it meets the regulatory requirements and budget constraints as well.

The deliverable is a much more detailed and comprehensive set of drawings than in the schematic phase, and a specification book, which can be thought of as written instructions for the drawings.

This specification book will specify the materials that have been selected, and provide things like installation instructions, quality control requirements, and other technical information. An updated cost estimate is usually produced as well.

AI and ML algorithms analyze historical data to predict potential project risks, cost overruns, and schedule delays. This helps in proactive decision-making and risk mitigation.

Essential Tasks of Design Development Stage

During the Design Development (DD) stage in construction, architects refine detailed drawings, floor plans, elevations, and sections with precise dimensions and annotations.

They coordinate structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems to ensure seamless integration. Additionally, material selections, regulatory compliance checks, and updated cost estimates are completed to align the design with client requirements and budgets.

Key Deliverables of Design Development Construction Documents

• Detailed floor plans with dimensions

• Comprehensive building sections and wall sections

• Elevations with finishes and openings

• Initial specifications and outline documents

• Grid dimensions for structural elements

• Material BOQs (Bill of Quantities)

• Coordination documents integrating architectural, structural, and MEP systems

Benefits of Design Development (DD) Phase

• Refined design clarity: DD transforms schematic concepts into detailed layouts, elevations, and sections for a more accurate representation of the final project.

• Systems integration: Ensures seamless coordination of structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems within the architectural design.

• Material and finish finalization: Architects can select materials, finishes, and specifications to achieve a cohesive and functional design.

• Enhanced cost estimation: Detailed design information allows for more precise budgeting, helping clients manage expenses effectively.

• Regulatory compliance: Confirms adherence to local building codes and standards, reducing legal risks and potential construction delays.

Applications of Design Development Construction Management

• Present detailed design information for client approval

• Establish design integrity across architectural, structural, and MEP systems

• Provide a foundation for accurate cost estimation and construction planning

• Guide contractors and consultants in preparing for the Construction Documents phase

Challenges of Design Development (DD) Phase

During DD, detailed drawings may reveal design conflicts requiring revisions, potentially affecting project timelines. Finalizing materials and systems can also lead to budget adjustments, posing challenges for cost management.

What are Construction Document Sets or CD in Construction?

All necessary technical information is finalized. The final set of drawings and specifications will include the information that’s required to obtain a building permit from whichever local authority has jurisdiction (e.g., the city or county).

The architect will typically handle the permitting process for you. If the authority has questions, requires additional information, or requests changes/corrections to the drawings (all of these scenarios are common), your architect will take care of it.

Up-and-coming platforms like Autodesk BIM 360, Procore, and PlanGrid provide cloud-based environments for storing, sharing, and collaborating on construction documents. This allows for real-time access and updates from anywhere.

Key Tasks of Construction Documents (CD) Phase

• Prepare highly detailed architectural drawings, plans, and specifications that guide the entire construction process.

• Compile all necessary documents for obtaining permits from local authorities and regulatory bodies.

• Assist clients in contractor selection by providing clear bid packages with all project details.

• Offer ongoing construction support, addressing queries, clarifications, and coordination needs as construction progresses.

Key Deliverables of Construction Documents Phase

The deliverable in this phase is a complete set of drawings and specifications, referred to as the construction documents. These will be submitted for the permit and given to contractors to develop bids/quotes for the work. Again, an updated cost estimate is usually produced as well. Deliverables in a CD set include:

• Comprehensive construction drawings including annotated floor plans, elevations, and sections

• Detailed specifications for materials, finishes, and systems

• Structural and MEP plans, schedules, and notes for HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and fire protection

• Complete building documentation with dimensions, room identification, and construction notes

• Construction documentation models for enhanced visualization and coordination

Benefits of Construction Documents Phase

• Provides a precise and clear blueprint, ensuring contractors understand the design intent and reduce errors on site.

• Supports accurate bidding by supplying detailed and unambiguous information to contractors.

• Accelerates permit approvals by presenting comprehensive and accurate documentation to regulatory authorities.

• Enables seamless coordination among architectural, structural, and MEP systems, enhancing construction quality and efficiency.

• Offers a reliable basis for timelines, cost management, and contract agreements, reducing risks and disputes.

Applications of Construction Documents (CC) Phase in Construction

Construction Documents serve as the definitive reference for contractors and sub-contractors to execute the project accurately.

They provide a foundation for pricing, cost estimation, and material procurement. CDs also guide the construction process to maintain design integrity, quality, and compliance with project specifications.

Challenges of Building Construction Documents Stage

Preparing highly detailed construction drawings and specifications requires extensive time, coordination, and technical expertise.

Any changes after finalization can be costly and may require reapproval from regulatory authorities. Ensuring accuracy across all systems and disciplines is critical to avoid delays and errors during construction.

SD vs DD vs CD Drawings

Here’s a detailed comparison between SD drawings vs DD Drawings Vs CD:

Winding Up

All these elements and architectural documentation phases come together to formulate a project from start to finish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does SD mean in construction and why is it important?SD, or Schematic Design, is the first stage of construction design where initial concepts are converted into preliminary drawings. It establishes the project layout, spatial relationships, and overall building form.

What is a DD set of drawings in construction?A DD set, or Design Development set, provides detailed architectural drawings including floor plans, elevations, sections, and material specifications. It refines the SD drawings for accurate planning and system integration.

How do SD drawings differ from DD drawings in construction?SD drawings focus on conceptual layouts and basic spatial arrangements, while DD drawings provide precise dimensions, coordinated systems (MEP, structural), and material selections for final design approval.

What is included in a CD set architecture or construction documents?A CD set includes the complete construction drawings, detailed specifications, MEP and structural plans, schedules, and notes required for permitting, contractor bidding, and execution of the project.

What are the SD, DD, CD phases in construction design?These phases represent the evolution of a project from concept to construction: SD sets the concept, DD develops detailed designs, and CD delivers the final architectural design documentation for construction and regulatory approval.

What is included in construction documents (CD) in construction?Construction documents (CD) include a complete set of detailed architectural drawings, floor plans, elevations, sections, MEP and structural plans, material specifications, schedules, and notes. They serve as the definitive guide for construction, permitting, contractor bidding, and quality control on-site.