Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) Practice Exam

In what phase does a client request a detailed budget for equipment and installation for a new conference center?

1. Planning phase

2. Design phase

3. Implementation phase

4. Evaluation phase

The correct answer is: Design phase

The design phase is critical in the lifecycle of a project as it shapes the details of how the project will be executed. During this phase, comprehensive plans are created that outline all the specifications, including technology requirements, space layouts, and aesthetics. This is the point where a client would request a detailed budget for equipment and installation, as it's essential to understand the financial implications of the design choices made. In the planning phase, initial concepts and broader objectives are discussed, but detailed financial assessments typically arise once the design has been solidified. The implementation phase is when the actual work begins, including procurement, installation, and setup of systems; hence, budgets might already have been established and set in the design phase. The evaluation phase occurs after implementation to assess the project's success and may involve budget reviews, but not the initial budget request. Therefore, the design phase is the appropriate context for a client to request detailed budget information related to the new conference center.