Planning an outdoor area does not need to be tricky or time consuming. When you are aware of the issues and give a little forethought to how the area will be used, you can save yourself some time now and in the future.

Here are 10 things to do before you make the investment in your outdoor area.

1. Consider what you want to use the area for. There are many different uses for outdoor spaces. Some people want to use their area for eating, cooking or just relaxing. You will want to figure this out ahead of time, so you plan your space usage effectively. You will also want to think ahead a little bit to what you might want to do in the future so you don't limit yourself with the choices you make now.

2. How many people will use the area? You are going to want to invite friends over to enjoy your outdoor oasis. Just make sure there are enough chairs, benches or lounge chairs for everyone. If you have an outdoor dining area you want to plan enough seating at the tables also.

3. Who might use your outdoor area? If you have children or the elderly who might be enjoying the area, some of your choices of outdoor furniture might be different. For the elderly benches and chairs that are easy to get in and out of are probably important. When it comes to children, there are many choices for outdoor furniture specifically made for children. You also want to take into account safety and durability in any purchases you make.

4. What climate are you in? Outdoor areas will of course be subject to the weather you are in. Some areas, such as those near the ocean, can be very hard on outdoor furniture. You want to make sure you choose a material that can stand up to the weather in your area. There are many choices in materials for outdoor furniture that should stand up to any weather. Poly Plastic, PVC, Aluminum and many more can all withstand a good amount of weather.

5. What effect will the sun have on your area? Do you have natural shade or will you need to purchase umbrellas or other artificial shade? These are very important considerations to make your outdoor area truly enjoyable.

6. Do you need electric or water hookups? Many backyards have water faucets but might not have electric plus. If you plan on cooking, or installing lights for the nights, you might need electric hookups. Also, where they are located is very important.

7. Maintenance on outdoor furnishings is also a big issue. Will you need to paint, stain or seal your furniture every year? Does it need to be stored in the winter months? These are important issues to decide before you make a large purchase of outdoor furniture.

8. Plan your colors. Outdoor furniture is available in many different colors, fabric patterns and the like. You will want to see what colors are in the area you will be furnishing and plan accordingly. It is a good idea to get an actual sample of the material or fabric because photos (especially online) are not always totally accurate. Any retailer should be able to provide you with these samples before you purchase anything.

9. Measure your space. Get a friend and a measuring tape (make sure it is long enough to measure your space), and measure your space.

10. And lastly, map out your space after you have measured it. This is easily done with graph paper and a ruler. Your potential furniture pieces can be represented by squares cut to scale and moved around until you like the layout. One thing to watch - give yourself more space between items than it looks like you need on paper. Furniture always seems closer together when you actually put it in your space.

After you have taken the time to think through these things, take your requirements to your local outdoor furnishings store or shop online and you will be able to make an informed and wise investment.

Joshua Brown is the Technology Manager for Millcraft Outdoor Furniture.