In interior design, sourcing refers to which activity?

• A. Selecting color palettes
• B. The act of finding all items that will be specified in a project
• C. Managing vendor payments
• D. Creating floor plans

Answer: (B)

Sourcing is the process of identifying and locating all items that will be specified for a project. It goes beyond just picking colors or drawing layouts; it involves researching options from multiple vendors, evaluating samples, checking availability and lead times, comparing pricing, and assembling a complete set of specified furnishings, finishes, textiles, fixtures, and accessories. This ensures the design concept can be realized within the project’s budget and schedule.

Color palette selection focuses on choosing colors, which is separate from finding and vetting actual products. Creating floor plans deals with spatial arrangement and how spaces will function, not the selection of purchases. Managing vendor payments is an administrative step that occurs after sourcing and procurement.