Evolutionary design process model EDPM

[edit] Introduction

Design is the realisation of an idea, or the resolution of requirements, through means of communication such as drawings, plans, specifications and models. These can then be used to enable items to be created or issues resolved.

Design can be understood as the projection of what is proposed before it is produced. The process of developing alternative solutions for what is proposed helps facilitate decision making.

[edit] Design through evolution

The evaluation of different design solutions involves sense testing, modifying and redesigning. This is an iterative processes that helps define constraints and requirements inherent in a particular design problem. This method of evaluation is sometimes referred to as the evolutionary design process model (EDPM).

Often used in software engineering, EDPM breaks the design process down into incremental stages and then builds on those stages. A series of small modifications or adaptations results in the generation of the next stage of the process.

The small modifications associated with EDPM can either transform the process or they can build on the original concept. In either instance, alternative design options adjust to changing circumstances. As a continuous or cyclical process, EDPM is thought to produce natural, iterative results based on an in-depth understanding of the design process and desired outcome.

[edit] Emerging designs

EDPM is based on the idea that designers can break down a design approach to develop multiple iterations of a concept. It is believed that this iterative approach feeds into the progression of the emerging design process by exploring - or exposing - possible problems that arise along the way. It also incorporates client changes throughout the process.

Information about the identification, analysis and resolution of any problem (or potential problem) serves as a form of feedback for the design team. It is added to the model, which is modified until a final, fully resolved design is produced.

[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki

• Building design process.
• Chaos theory.
• Design process essentials.
• Double diamond design process.
• General design theory GDT.
• Value management techniques for building design and construction.

[edit] External resources

• Andres Gomez de Silva Garza and Mary Lou Maher, A process model for evolutionary design case adaptation.
• David C. Wynn and P. John Clarkson, Process models in design and development.