Sustainability · Defined
Basis of design (BOD)
Documentation explaining the design approach, criteria, and assumptions used to meet project requirements.
Why it matters
It connects the owner’s objectives to the selected systems and design decisions. Changes to occupancy or operating needs can require revisiting the original assumptions.
In practice
A project example
A change to extended operating hours prompts review of the mechanical design assumptions.
Technical references
General educational guidance from KOW Building Consultants. Examples are illustrative, not project records. The applicable contract, standard, program, and jurisdiction control the requirements for a specific assignment.