MAINTENANCE

Consequently, it is important (1) that maintenance people be knowledgeable and well trained in all aspects of site upkeep, and (2) that the designer clearly communicate the intentions of the design to the maintenance people. What is learned through evaluation can be applied to subsequent designs that are created. Most projects don’t sustain themselves in perfect condition without periodic maintenance and upkeep. • How does the design function? • How has the pavement material held up? This should be an ongoing procedure that, from time to time, analyzes various aspects of the implemented design. • Are all the plant materials doing well? The following questions can be asked periodically throughout the years:
• How does the design appear? Too often, a design dete­riorates because of poor maintenance despite its good initial design qualities and proper implementation. The designer should never stop looking, analyzing, judging, and questioning. EVALUATION
The final phase of the design process is to evaluate the success of the design solution. In a way, the implementation of a design is just the beginning of its life and useful­ness. Which ones are not, and why? Often, the best way to evaluate is by observing the design over an extended period of time. From
this viewpoint, the design process is a continuous, ongoing effort extending beyond the limits of a single project. • Are there any problems with the wood structures?