Creation of an Evolutive Conceptual Know-how Framework for Integrative Building Design

摘要

Low productivity of the building sector today is attributed to the fragmentation of tasks, disciplines and responsibilities, as well as to the resistance to adopt integrative work processes and digital means. The increased complexity of architectural projects and the aroused social consciousness for sustainable environment calls for integrative design collaboration. Thus, there is need for a Conceptual Framework combining work processes, technological means, normative aspects and domain knowledge. This paper defines such a framework combining Integrated Design Process (IDP) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) with the purpose to contribute for sustainable built environment. Its theoretical background lays on studies in social learning (activity theory and situated action theories). These theories suggest that learning and knowledge generation occurs mainly within a social process defined as an activity. This corresponds to the context in which the IDP-BIM framework will be used, its final objective being the transformation of building design practices. Various layers of knowledge information are present in the Conceptual Framework, namely, on the design process, on the integrated digital environment and on the roles of the actors in the design process, depending on the project-delivery method. Two validation scenarios are under development and observation : one is concerning the assistance provided by the Conceptual Framework in creating a common language between different building specialists, and a second one is regarding the ergonomics of the digital interface.