A test fit is a floor plan used by architects to assess the feasibility of a physical space and its ability to meet a client’s programmatic needs. Though not necessarily very detailed, a test fit yields a rough determination of whether your program will fit physically in your desired site.  If a test fit is positive – that is, the result indicates that the site will accommodate the desired program - then your team will move forward to more refined drawings, such as a space plan. If instead, the test fit shows that your site will not physically accommodate your school’s needs, either the site is abandoned or another strategy is developed, often through creative brainstorming by the team.  

A positive test fit will allow you to confidently move forward in selecting your desired site. Once the property is secured and you’re ready to make the financial commitment, you can then engage full Architectural/Engineering services, although sometimes that’s done earlier.  Your architect will then develop design and technical documents, from schematic design through to Construction Drawings and specifications, which will include a finer level of detail than the initial test fit.