The Evolution of Design Process - Sustainable Design: The Science of Sustainability and Green Engineering - page 7

as analogous to the conceiving of a new living organism. The process begins with
the necessary definitions of the essential systems to support this new form of life.
Next, performance characteristics are defined in precise detail to communicate
assembly (embryonic growth). Finally, the concept is realized (born) by translating
this vision from two-dimensional constructs into three-dimensional reality. Let
us consider each step in a bit more detail, applying the analogy of the living
organism to the design process.
Program or Problem Statement
Linear progression of the process would logically begin with a clear definition
of the problem to be solved. In this case it is essential to pose questions of our
client to determine in sufficient detail the goals for this new living organism,
organizational form and systems, and how these will interact and influence each
other in the functioning of the whole. It would also be helpful to understand and
characterize the environment in which this organism will reside and the potential
for symbiotic relationships within this ecosystem.
Skeletal Form or Schematic
Once the data are collected and understood, the logical next step in the design
process would be to synthesize alternatives for weaving these forms together
to create a skeletal framework or schematic for the new organism. This frame
provides the basic support structure and places the forms identified in the first
step in the most appropriate relationship with one another, seeking optimization
of the design to meet the original goals and objectives most efficiently. At the
end of this step, as a measure of design success, the original program or problem
statement would be consulted and would serve as a checklist.
Systems Development
With the skeletal frame in place, the design proceeds forward. It moves in a linear
fashion to the next rational step, of developing this design concept to incorporate
the internal systems required to nourish the organism by transporting air and
water, removing waste, and designing a central nervous system that provides the
means for individual systems to communicate with one another. The heating,
ventilation, air-conditioning, plumbing, and electrical systems for our organism
are put in place. Our quality control/quality assurance measures at this point
require that we confirm that we indeed have accounted for and incorporated all