Phase 3: Design & Development

This is the largest and most complex of all the project phases. It begins with the detailed parameters and resources defined at the end of the previous phase, and ends with the exhibition opening to the public.

The Design and Media Division is actively planning and designing the exhibition. The Exhibition Designers are developing the look and feel, selecting materials, and creating detailed designs for all elements within the exhibition with enough detail to price them out. Graphic Designers are coordinating on the look and feel and planning out the graphic system and the content allocation for the yet to be completed text. The Media Producers are coming up with plans for media content, contributing to concepts and goals, and helping to define the physical space needed for all elements.

The Development Division...

The Planning and Traveling Exhibitions Division may ramp down its involvement during this phase by participating only in milestone review meetings, if the exhibition is small, involves few outside partners, is not being completed with the support of a federal grant, or is not traveling, However, frequently one or more of those conditions apply, which will require their extended involvement.

The Operations Division is the driving force keeping the project moving forward. The Project Managers schedule all team meetings and milestones, lead the budget tracking and evaluation process, and make sure all team members have what they need. They are also actively promoting the exhibition to the wider museum and giving presentations and resources to other departments including marketing, group sales, and stores.

The Production and Interactives Division is absorbing information from the team meetings and the Design department. Ideas are being thought through, Vendors are being contacted for ballpark estimates. Materials are being sourced and tested. The Production Supervisor or Manager is building a budget and schedule with the known information.