Design. Build. Protect.
Design | Build | Protect is the planning framework we use to help clients organize financial decisions over time. It provides structure for navigating complexity while keeping values, priorities, and long-term objectives at the center of the planning process.
Rather than relying on static assumptions, this framework is designed to adapt as circumstances, goals, and external factors change.
Design — Clarifying Goals and Priorities
The planning process begins with understanding what matters most. This phase focuses on clarifying goals, identifying constraints, and recognizing tradeoffs so financial decisions can be evaluated in proper context.
As part of this work, we develop a clear and evolving life map — a practical way to understand how family, career, values, and responsibilities shape financial priorities over time.
Design focuses on:
- Clarifying short- and long-term financial priorities
- Understanding family, career, and lifestyle considerations
- Identifying tradeoffs that influence planning decisions
Build — Coordinating and Implementing the Plan
Once priorities are defined, planning decisions are coordinated and implemented across investment strategy, tax considerations, and risk management. This phase emphasizes integration rather than isolated strategies.
Planning implementation may include:
- Applying evidence-based investment principles
- Coordinating tax-aware strategies across accounts
- Aligning planning decisions with long-term objectives
Protect — Managing Risk and Adapting Over Time
Financial planning is not linear. As goals, markets, tax laws, and personal circumstances evolve, plans must be reviewed and adjusted. This phase focuses on managing risks and preparing for transitions that could disrupt long-term plans.
Protect considerations often include:
- Estate and trust planning coordination
- Business succession and ownership transitions
- Long-term care and asset protection planning
We also believe education plays an important role. Clients are kept informed as changes in markets, legislation, and planning strategies may affect their overall plan.
Design | Build | Protect in Practice
The Design | Build | Protect framework is applied across different stages of financial life — including accumulation, distribution, transition, and legacy planning. While priorities and strategies change at each stage, the framework provides a consistent way to evaluate decisions and maintain coordination over time.
The interactive chart below illustrates how planning considerations evolve across life phases while remaining connected within a single, integrated framework.
If you’d like to learn how the Design | Build | Protect framework is applied within our financial planning and wealth management services, we invite you to request an introductory conversation.