During which phase of a project do documents first fix the size and character of the entire project, including systems?

The correct choice for the phase during which documents first fix the size and character of the entire project, including systems, is design development. In this phase, the project's design is refined to a greater level of detail, providing the clarity needed regarding the dimensions, materials, and systems that will be used.

During design development, the initial concepts set forth during the schematic design phase are transformed into more concrete and detailed representations. This includes finalizing layout, determining structural and mechanical systems, and making decisions about material selections. The result is a set of drawings and specifications that represent a cohesive vision of the project, addressing both aesthetic and functional needs.

The planning/pre-design phase is mainly focused on gathering information and defining the project's goals rather than fixing dimensions and characteristics. Schematic design starts to outline the overall vision but does not yet provide the level of detail needed for system specifications. The construction documents phase involves creating the detailed drawings and specifications needed for construction, but by this point, the size and character have already been fixed during design development.