Seeing eye to eye The range of issues to be clarified before a building is finally realised extends beyond technical questions relating to design and execution of the building. Usage, legal requirements, standards, costs, deadlines and financing also form part of the planning process, along with the actual design aspects of location, structure, space, proportions, light, colour and material texture. In keeping with the complexity of these tasks, a broad range of specialists are involved in the process - building owners, architects, planners and craftsmen. So what is the appropriate modus operandi for a manufacturer which is more than just a supplier of goods in this branch of industry? As a direct distributor, Sto has always appreciated that close relations with the customer are the key to understanding the latter's real needs. In order to be a genuine partner, it is necessary to experience at first hand the expectations, hopes, trepidation or enthusiasm pertaining to a building project.