The NCIDQ IDPX exam tests the designer’s ability to manage FF&E (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) issues during the design process, particularly when discrepancies are identified in a mock-up. A mock-up is a physical sample of a design element (e.g., systems furniture) used to verify the design intent before full production.

Option A (Explain to the client that the mock-up cannot be altered):This is incorrect, as the purpose of a mock-up is to identify and correct issues before production. Stating that it cannot be altered dismisses the client’s valid concern and prevents resolution of the discrepancy.

Option B (Verify in the meeting minutes which finishes were selected):While verifying meeting minutes might confirm the client’s selections, it does not address the root cause of the discrepancy (e.g., whether the wrong fabric was ordered or if the selected fabric is unsuitable). This step is less immediate and actionable than reviewing the submittal.

Option C (Request the furniture dealership to reproduce the mock-up):Requesting a new mock-up is premature without first identifying the cause of the discrepancy. If the fabric was incorrectly ordered or specified, reproducing the mock-up without correction will not resolve the issue.

Option D (Review the fabric submittal to ensure it works with the application):This is the correct choice. The designer should first review the fabric submittal (the documentation submitted by the vendor detailing the fabric’s specifications) to confirm whether the fabric matches the client’s selection and corporate standards, and whether it is suitable for the application (e.g., meets durability or fire code requirements). This step identifies the cause of the discrepancy—whether it was an ordering error, a substitution, or a mismatch with standards—allowing the designer to take appropriate corrective action.

Verified Answer from Official Source:

The correct answer is verified from NCIDQ’s official study materials on FF&E management and mock-up review processes.

“When a discrepancy is identified in a mock-up, the designer should first review the submittal to verify that the selected product matches the specifications and meets the application requirements before proceeding with corrections.” (NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide, FF&E Section)

The NCIDQ IDPX Study Guide recommends reviewing the submittal as the first step to address discrepancies in a mock-up. This ensures the designer understands the cause of the issue (e.g., incorrect fabric, mismatch with standards) and can take informed action, making Option D the correct next step.

Objectives:

Understand the process for addressing FF&E discrepancies (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: FF&E).

Apply problem-solving skills during mock-up reviews (NCIDQ IDPX Objective: Contract Administration).