A well-planned project is a synergistic balance between space requirements, site constraints, building systems integration, and budgetary parameters. BAU planning attends to detail and places the client's unique and particular needs first.

The planning process begins with a series of workshops or meetings with the client team to explore opportunities and limitations. Planning begins in "sketch mode" when programs and services are evaluated to meet current and future space needs. A qualitative and functional assessment of space with respect to programmatic needs establishes priorities and allows a program to develop for each client's unique spatial requirements. Once the program is documented, tested and approved, cost estimation evaluates the program to ensure conformance with the budget. Successful planning achieves congruence between space needs and budgeting. BAU specializes in planning for civic, social, healthcare and hospitality projects.

Attention to procedure, protocol and proper project administration is essential for the planning of any project. Coordination of the program, budget and schedule with all relevant information is necessary to proceed to design.