The correct answer is D. Describe the project . During the Information Phase, the VM team must gain a shared and factual understanding of the project before performing function analysis or generating alternatives. The designer’s role is to explain the current design, project background, design intent, major assumptions, technical criteria, constraints, drawings, specifications, cost basis, and reasons behind key design decisions. This helps the VM team understand what has been proposed, why it has been proposed, and what limits or requirements must be respected during the study.

Option A is not the best answer because defining expectations is usually led by the sponsor, owner, or VM facilitator during planning and study setup. Option B belongs primarily to the Preparation Phase, where the study scope, participants, agenda, and logistics are established. Option C is incorrect because identifying functions is the responsibility of the VM team during the Function Analysis Phase, not the designer’s primary role in the Information Phase.

The designer provides the technical baseline; the VM team then analyzes that baseline objectively. Without a clear project description, later phases may address the wrong problem or challenge valid requirements incorrectly.

References/topics: Information Phase; Designer Role; Project Background; Design Intent; VM Job Plan.