What is the goal of the 'design review' phase in commissioning?

The goal of the 'design review' phase in commissioning is to evaluate the design against the Owner's Project Requirements (OPR) and project standards. This phase is crucial because it ensures that the design aligns with the objectives and expectations set forth by the owner at the beginning of the project. By thoroughly assessing the design during this phase, potential issues can be identified and addressed before construction begins, ultimately leading to a more efficient and effective commissioning process. The design review involves checking compliance with functional, operational, and performance criteria, ensuring that all stakeholder needs are met.

Finalizing aesthetic aspects of the project pertains to visual appeal rather than functionality, making it less relevant in the context of commissioning. While preparing for construction is important, it is a subsequent step that comes after the design has been validated against the requirements. Assessing vendor bids relates to procurement and contractor selection, which occurs later in the project timeline and is not the primary focus of the design review phase. Thus, the evaluation against OPR and project standards is the correct and primary aim during this critical phase of commissioning.