Who is accountable for document control activities during the Pre-Design Phase?

• A. Project Manager
• B. CxA
• C. Architect
• D. Contractor

Answer: (B)

The commissioning authority is the one accountable for document control activities in the Pre-Design phase. This role takes ownership of organizing and managing all commissioning-related documents from the outset, establishing the system for versioning, naming conventions, distribution lists, and file structure. They record and control the essential inputs that define how the building will be tested and verified—such as owner project requirements, the basis of design, the commissioning scope, test plans, and acceptance criteria—and ensure those decisions and approvals are traceable and accessible as the project progresses.

This accountability matters because the commissioning process relies on clear, controlled documentation to guide design decisions and later verification activities. While the project manager, architect, and contractor contribute documents within their domains, the commissioning authority coordinates and maintains the unified set of documents that reflect the project’s commissioning goals, ensuring consistency across design and construction and alignment with owner requirements.