Before one begins the planning process for a new facility, it is important to determine if there is a need for a new facility. The demand for a new facility can be drawn from increases in the number of users, the type of users, and the type of events to be conducted in the facility. A feasibility study should be conducted to analyze the legal issues associated with the proposed facility, usage (both current and future), site selection, financial feasibility, and administrative feasibility of the project. In addition to the feasibility study, it is necessary to evaluate existing facilities. To accomplish this, a facility audit should be conducted. Can existing facilities be upgraded to meet future needs? Renovation of existing facilities is often considered because it can be less expensive than building new facilities and can allow the use of existing space. Once it has been determined that a need exists, and a new facility has been approved, it is time to organize a project-planning committee. This article walks the reader through the steps of planning and designing the best and most appropriate facility for each organization's needs. (Contains 2 tables.) (For Part 2, see EJ741694.)