1
general::
From the very beginning; also, completely, thoroughly. For example, We've had to learn a new system from the ground up, or The company changed all of the forms from the ground up. This expression alludes to the construction of a house, which begins with the foundation.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): from the ground up
Fig. from the very beginning. • We must plan our sales campaign carefully from the ground up. • Sorry, but you’ll have to start all over again from the ground up.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs