The Architecture and Design Process can be divided into three phases, Conceptualization, Design and Communication. These phases flow one to the next with considerable overlap creating a continuous design process. The research at the DDC spans all three phases. The general characteristics of these phases are as follows

Conceptualize:

The conceptualization stage of the design process is characterized by ambiguity, imprecision, and fuzzy intention, all of which are difficult to express using the current CAD tools.

Design:

This stage of the process is where form, color and context are introduced. The DDC is developing innovative tools for this stage including site capture, color design and advanced visualization, that move beyond current CAD modeling packages.

Communicate:

More than pretty images and movies, communication of the design involves creating the right tools to teach and train new techniques and processes involved in construction and maintenance of the realized design. The DDC alone, and in collaboration with other insitutions is beginning to develop these new communication tools.