The Influence of Information Characteristics on Preliminary Design Concepts
Abstract An experimental approach to discover the use of information in conceptual design will give a realistic insight of the information requirements. This can be used to specify future computer support systems, and improve their performance, especially in the conceptual stages of design. A method to observe the use of information in a conceptual design process has recently been developed. The method has been tested and fine-tuned through the observation of 10 design sessions. Valuable empirical data resides from this experiment. Data has been analysed in several perspectives. This paper presents the results of the activity/information analysis in relation with the quality of the design concept for which a rating system has been defined. A significant positive correlation was found between the amount of communicated information and the rating of the design. Furthermore, a discussion is given on the relation between information and the activities of the designer. Analysis activities are more communication intensive compared to synthesis and evaluation tasks.