Primary job of an architect is to design buildings which can range from a residential house to a skyscraper.
An architect can be involved pretty much throughout the whole development process.
The steps of how an architect works are usually like this:
Step 1 - A developer contacts an architect regarding a proposed development.The developer briefs the architect on the desired building. The architect provides a quote for their serivces.
Step 2 - The developer together with an architect consults and engages a town planner to check the suitability of the proposed development against the local government's planning scheme.
Step 3 - The developer together with an architect consults and engages a surveyor to obtain a contour and detail survey of the property. This will allow the architect to work with the real topography of the property.
Step 4 - The architect prepares a rough design of the building and consults with the developer. The architect makes the relevant changes to the design after the consultation.
Step 5 - The architect finalises the plans and consults with the town planner in making a development application to council.
Step 6 - If your council requires any further information regarding the design, the architect will be involved to resolve any issues.
Step 7 - When the council approves the development, the architect will work closely with the builder to make sure that the building is being built to correct design specifications.