The NCIDQ IDPX exam tests the designer’s understanding of the programming phase, particularly for a project involving the conversion of an existing space. Programming involves gathering information to define the project’s requirements, and for an existing building conversion, understanding the current conditions is critical.
Option A (Identify building codes):Identifying building codes is important, but it is typically done during the schematic design phase or later, after programming establishes the project’s needs. It is not the most important programming activity.
Option B (Prepare record (as-built) drawings):This is the correct choice. For a conversion project, the most important programming activity is to prepare record (as-built) drawings of the existing retail facility. These drawings document the current conditions (e.g., walls, columns, utilities), providing a baseline for planning the new office layout. Without accurate as-built drawings, the designer cannot effectively program the space or proceed with design.
Option C (Calculate the number of parking spaces):Calculating parking spaces is a code-related task that occurs later, typically during schematic design or permitting, after programming defines the office’s occupancy and needs.
Option D (Determine which consultants are required):While determining consultants (e.g., structural engineer, MEP engineer) is important, it is a secondary step that follows after understanding the existing conditions through as-built drawings.
Verified Answer from Official Source:
The correct answer is verified from NCIDQ’s official study materials on programming for existing building conversions.
“For a project involving the conversion of an existing space, the most important programmingactivity is to prepare record (as-built) drawings to document the current conditions and inform the design process.” (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Programming Section)
The NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide emphasizes that preparing as-built drawings is the most critical programming activity for a conversion project, as it provides the foundation for understanding the existing space. This aligns with Option B, making it the correct answer.
Objectives:
Understand programming activities for existing building conversions (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Programming).
Apply documentation to inform design decisions (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Project Planning).
[References:, NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, Programming Section., National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ), IDPX Exam Blueprint, Section on Programming., ]