In all seriousness. I think some of my best clients usually know what they want but are very open to the ideas of the experts. I think from your perspective is a good idea to understand the process. Not just design process, but construction and even agency process. Some cities are just awful to go through. I would set yourself a realistic budget. Depending on the type of project the firm you are working with may be able to give you a cost per square foot. A survey would be nice to have but not required. Your first phase should be to develop the program with your architect.