This thesis aims to discover, understand, and evaluate the contemporary client and user involvement practices of landscape architects in the Greater Cleveland area. The research used narrative interviews with firms and their clients to answer the following questions:

1. Do landscape architects correctly interpret their clients? needs?
2. Are clients? needs incorporated into designs?
3. Are clients satisfied with landscape architectural services?
4. Do landscape architects involve users on a regular basis?
5. Is there a set of best practices to adopt when working with clients?

The results showed that landscape architects focused on understanding the needs of their clients from the beginning of the design process through one-on-one communication with them. This input was incorporated into designs to the satisfaction of the clients. Landscape architects felt that part of their job was to educate clients about good design. This allows their practical and creative input to combine with the client?s producing a design that satisfies their needs and holds up over time. Clients appreciate the practical recommendations and high level of communication that the landscape architects offer.

Users do not participate in the design process on a day-to-day basis, although most firms work with them sporadically. The methods for working with them are not well defined by the interviewees.

Both client and user involvement is limited by budget constraints, project type, and client wishes.