ADAPTING AEROSPACE DESIGN RATIONALE MAPPING TO CIVIL ENGINEERING: A PRELIMINARY STUDY
Year: 2011
Editor: Culley, S.J.; Hicks, B.J.; McAloone, T.C.; Howard, T.J. & Chen, W.
Author: Eng, Nathan Lee; Marfisi, Emanuele; Aurisicchio, Marco
Section: Design Information and Knowledge Management
Page(s): 468-479
Abstract
A pilot study of aerospace design rationale capture methods in civil engineering was performed to improve support for information management and systems thinking. Deploying software-based methods in complex socio-technical environments presents many challenges. Digital tools are often force-fit into work in ways that disrupt communication and understanding. This study seeks to mitigate potential disruptions through careful study of opportunities for innovative, localized variations in civil engineering. Data was collected through adaptation of existing documents into map-based formats, examination of information repositories and informal interviews with engineers exposed to the mapping methods on a live project. Results echo previous work comparing these industries: highlight current limitations of “paperless” visions and pointing to adapted mapping methods that better fit the civil engineering context. Future work will develop those methods in collaboration with more engineers over longer studies to demonstrate further impact on the everyday work and the kinds of holistic thinking required for global competitiveness and sustainable design of the built environment.
Keywords: KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT; DIAGRAMMING; CSCW; CONCEPT MAPPING; AEC