Programming is the pre-design phase where user needs, space requirements, equipment, and furniture needs are assessed. This information is critical to developing an appropriate design later during schematic and design development phases.
References:
NCARB ARE 5.0 Handbook - Project Phases and Scope
AIA B101 - Programming and Owner-provided information
Ballast ARE 5 Review Manual - Programming and analysis

An RFI is a formal request from the contractor for clarification regarding the contract documents during construction. The architect's primary responsibility is to respond clearly and promptly to avoid project delays and confusion. The architect reviews the question, interprets the design intent, and provides necessary clarifications or directs the contractor accordingly. While an RFI can lead to change orders, issuing them is a separate process involving owner approval. The architect's role focuses on maintaining project momentum and communication flow. This aligns with the ARE 5.0 PjM emphasis on construction phase communication, contractor coordination, and proper documentation of clarifications as part of contract administration.

Cost-Plus Contracts reimburse the contractor for actual costs plus an agreed fee or percentage. This contract type shifts some risk to the owner but allows flexibility for uncertain scopes. Lump sum contracts are fixed price; unit price contracts pay per unit; time and materials pay based on labor and material costs but usually with a cap. ARE 5.0 PjM covers contract types and their implications.

Verified Answer
At the outset of schematic design, the architect must coordinate with consultants and communicate constraints and expectations to keep the project aligned with goals. Building permits are typically addressed in the construction documents phase. FF&E coordination and curtain wall detailing occur later in design development and construction documents.
Coordination and planning at schematic design are crucial to project integration.
Reference: AIA B101 §3.2 - Schematic Design Phase
NCARB ARE 5.0 Handbook - PjM Content Area 1 and 4

Interactive bar charts are ideal for large projects where team commitment and communication are priorities.
Unlike a simple milestone chart or the more complex Critical Path Method (CPM), interactive bar charts provide a visual, time-based representation of tasks that facilitates easy understanding across disciplines.
When developed in a collaborative setting (such as pull-planning or in-person planning sessions), these charts help the project team see their roles, identify dependencies, and commit to deliverables.
The ARE 5.0 Handbook (Project Management division) describes interactive bar charts as excellent tools for collaborative environments where schedule visibility and team accountability are essential.
These charts promote communication across team members and are easier for non-technical stakeholders to interpret.
Reference: NCARB ARE 5.0 Handbook - PjM Content Area 3: Project Work Planning