Envision Your Organization’s Future

The length of the master planning process depends on the needs of your organization. School districts or campuses with multiple buildings can expect a longer process than an organization with a single facility. Internal decision-making and input from stakeholders can also lengthen the process. Generally, the process can last anywhere from six weeks to six months.

To help craft a successful master plan, your architect needs to understand your current facilities and expected changes to your organization. We recommend providing enrollment or growth projections, existing building drawings, tours of your existing facilities, and documentation from previous planning efforts.

Most organizations form a core group of decision-makers to lead the process. We also recommend including your facilities staff and a cross-section of your organization in visioning and planning workshops. Outside your organization, your architect may bring on consultants like civil, structural, and MEP engineers.

At the end of the master planning process, you will receive a report to reference when making decisions. It will include diagrams and a narrative, as well as an appendix that explains decision-making. The report should be easy to disseminate to members of your organization or the public.

Most master plans forecast five to ten years into the future. Beyond this timeframe, it can be difficult to predict costs, availability of resources, and your organization’s needs. We recommend updating your plan at least once every ten years.