What are the financial factors in the design process?

Many things. Not only does a building need to be apealing to the eye, it has to be structurally sound. Snow loads, wind loads, high water areas all affect design. The type of construction to be used is always a factor (wood, steel, concrete, masonry)and all types of construction design will differ based on the material or combination of material used. Another big factor are the building code guidelines, and fire safety guidelines in effect in that area. I hope that helps you out somewhat.

Also you need a good site to build on...soil conditions need to be sound

Just to make it a little bit easier:

- Environmental - What impact on the environment during and after the work is done the build may have. If it may lead to destruction of habitats, contamination of soil and water.

- Time - How long it may take to finish the work

- Legal - Design must be made in accordance with building regulations. If the design doesn't add up with regulations must be rearanged and this may delayed whole work

- Financial - This factor should be calculated if the client has enough money to aford to pay for work of all people who would work for him. Access to bigger funds let the architect use expensive materials.

- Weather - Work might not be finished in time because of bad weather.

- Planing process - Building needs to be apealing to the eye, it has to be structurally sound. Also, must be considered the type of construction to be used (i.e. wood, steel, concrete, masonry) building load i.e. snow and wind loads.