Final answer:
An investigation of available resources is typically undertaken during the planning phase, which involves assessing necessary resources and understanding design characteristics for project success.
Step-by-step explanation:
An investigation of available resources typically takes place during the planning phase of a project or study. This phase involves assessing what is necessary to undertake the project, including materials, time, human resources, and financial allocations. It sets the stage for subsequent phases by establishing the groundwork upon which design, development, and implementation are based. In engineering and design workflows, the planning phase allows for a thorough understanding of the design characteristics, which is crucial for the success of a project.
However, considering the broader scope of a project lifecycle, investigating resources can also continue into further phases, like the conceptualization phase, where ideas and approaches are evaluated.