Integrated Design‐Process Model

Abstract

The present paper describes a model of the building design process that will help designers to better integrate the activities required to accomplish the design. It also proposes that by properly integrating the design process, a company can minimize design liability and exposure. A design‐process model of good U.S. building design practice shows key production and design activities. The results of a survey of the activities being introduced into a large design company to better manage liability are covered. These activities are then merged with the design practice model to form the integrated design process model (IDPM). The design model represents the major functions and activities necessary for a successful design. It also identifies the flow of information and knowledge that supports development of the design. Hierarchical decomposition trees and flow models of the IDPM are presented. Definitions of the model are included in an appendix. Finally, a discussion on applying this model in the field closes the paper.