The schematic design phase begins with a definition of the project’s objectives and possible components. Based on this programming information, various sketch solutions are explored.
Usually one of these schemes (or one composed of aspects of various solutions) becomes the direction for the architectural design.
The schematic phase concludes when a known contractor, acting as a paid cost consultant, works up a preliminary cost estimate for the chosen scheme. If the estimate falls within the client's budget criteria, the schematic design phase is complete. If the estimate fails to satisfy the budget criteria, further explorations are conducted reexamining the scope of the project, the quality of its components, and the complexity of the chosen solution, to produce a modified scheme that falls within budgetary expectations. This phase, like life, is all about reconciling means and desires.