Summary: |
This paper presents a theoretical framework of Interactive Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration (IMDisCo) for building design. This framework puts the whole design and communicative process into a project-based problem solving setting that is compatible to today's supply chain management framework. It also offers a set of evaluation methods based on (1) quality, and (2) cost of the design. An analysis of the framework shows that IMDisCo offers more design options than the conventional approach of document based design. With the help of suitable technology, the turn-around-time of design in IMDisCo can be shorter than the conventional approach. And thus the (theoretical) optimal design quality (cost) can be higher (lower) than the document based design. Three critical success factors for the framework have been presented. Finally, this paper discusses the future work of establishing the IMDisCo framework as an industry framework. In the longer term, the emerging new software that supports goal setting, design and evaluation will further enhance the paradigm shift of interactive multi-disciplinary design. |