Design Research Articles

Design Leadership and Sustainable Leadership in Sustainable Practice of an Indonesian Architectural Design Firm, Han Awal and Partners

Design Leadership and Sustainable Leadership in Sustainable Practice of an Indonesian Architectural Design Firm, Han Awal and Partners

Knowledge and Skills of Senior Architectural Design Students in China: A Channel for Enhancing Future Career Readiness

This chapter presents the findings of the study regarding the assessments of senior architectural design students' knowledge and skills from the perspectives of both the students and employers. The aim is to provide a comprehensive overview of the respondents’ evaluations in various domains critical to architectural education and practice. This paper adopts descriptive quantitative with qualitative data to study the knowledge and skills of architectural design students from different perspectives of architectural design students and design firms (employers) to address deficiencies in key areas of architectural education and practice. In terms of knowledge level evaluation, architectural design students and architectural design companies (employers) evaluate key areas such as design skills, technical knowledge, theoretical understanding, sustainable development awareness and communication skills, and their degree is at a medium level (I). In terms of skill level assessment, architectural design students and architectural design companies (employers) evaluated specific abilities in design skills and creativity, technical ability, project management, sustainable design, and communication and presentation skills, and their levels were at the proficient level (P). evaluate the knowledge and skills level of Chinese architectural design students and develop a corresponding professional improvement plan.

Integrated Workflow Development for Data-Driven Neighborhood-Scale Building Performance Simulation

Abstract As urbanization intensifies, cities are key contributors to energy consumption and carbon emissions, accounting for a significant portion of global energy use and CO2 emissions. This paper introduces a systematic approach to support the development of urban projects with minimized operational carbon footprints through the integration of data-driven building performance simulation (BPS) tools in early-stage design. Emphasizing the necessity for a collaborative effort among designers, policymakers, and other stakeholders, we discuss the evolution of BPS toward incorporating data-driven tools for energy need reduction and informed decision-making. Despite the proliferation of modeling methods and data-related challenges, we present a theoretical workflow, supported by interactions with design firms in the US and European Union (EU) through interviews. This structured approach, demonstrating adaptability and scalability across urban contexts, foregrounds the potential for future data-driven integration in design practices. Grounded in theoretical concepts and preliminary real-world insights, our work emphasizes the transformation of standard activities toward data-driven processes, showcasing the crucial role of practical experience in advancing sustainable, low-carbon urban development.

Emergency repairs downstream of earth and rockfill dams with water spring with indication of internal erosion

During periodic dam safety assessments, various anomalies are identified through field inspections, project documentation analysis, and structural behavior monitoring. These assessments aim to detect non-conformities, and engineering design firms propose technical solutions to address these issues. The primary goal of these reviews is to evaluate the overall state of conservation and structural safety, ensuring compliance with updated design criteria, revised standards, changing weather conditions, and technological advances. Dam renovations are crucial for enhancing operational capacity and preventive care. Implementing filtering materials within the dam's body establishes a drainage system to relieve internal pressures on the embankments and foundations. This prevents the washing away of soil particles due to internal erosion, known as "piping," a major cause of dam failures. Piping occurs when soil particles are displaced towards the outside of the embankment through the percolation process, particularly in the upstream area near the dam's base, where high hydraulic gradients and flows make it susceptible. This article presents a set of emergency or long-term solutions to address anomalies related to the onset of internal erosion in dams, with a focus on preventing piping. These solutions are vital for safeguarding the structural integrity and safety of these critical infrastructure components.

Developing a climate for innovation index for architectural design firms

PurposeIn recent years, climate for innovation has attracted wide attention from industry and academia. It is perceived as a critical component of innovation performance in the built environment sector, especially in architectural design firms (ADFs). This study attempts to assess the degree of climate for innovation in the Vietnamese ADFs under the organizational climate theory.Design/methodology/approachA list of 13 innovation climate variables was found by reviewing previous studies and discussions with industry practitioners. These variables were then categorized into three principal factors (personal commitment, tolerance of difference, and support for creativity), forming the inputs of the fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) analysis.FindingsThe results showed that the overall level of innovation in the climate is moderate, implying that it is still necessary for more improvements to the Vietnamese ADFs. The fuzzy analysis revealed that support for creativity was the most critical factor, followed by tolerance of difference and personal commitment.Originality/valueThe proposed climate for innovation model is practical and reliable for architectural professionals and can be applied to assess other research areas. Few studies have emphasized the innovation climate in the construction sector, so this research may broaden the knowledge and literature on the industry, especially for the ADFs.

A strategy for reducing construction waste generated during the design process in architectural design firms in Egypt

Purpose This paper aims to develop and validate a strategy for reducing construction waste (CW) generated during the design process (DP) in architectural design firms (ADFs) in Egypt. Design/methodology/approach Qualitative and quantitative research methodology was designed to accomplish four objectives. The literature review investigated DP, CW, waste management (WM) and WM strategies (WMS). Three case studies were analysed to investigate the role of WMS towards reducing CW during DP. A survey questionnaire was conducted with a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to assess their perception and application of WMS during DP. Lastly, a strategy was developed and validated to reduce CW generated during DP. Findings Through literature review, the research identified the highest 40 causes of CW during the DP and classified them into 13 categories. Despite early promotion of WMS to reduce CW at its source, Egypt and other countries with similar construction market characteristics lack laws and regulations to address CW during the DP, with current codes primarily focusing on post-occurrence issues. In addition, analysis of three case studies showed that CW was reduced by adopting WMS during the DP. Findings of data analysis revealed that ADFs have an average knowledge of WMS and a low awareness of Egyptian laws and WMS during DP. “Prefabrication” was the highest-ranked strategy for CW reduction during DP. Several challenges hamper the implementation of WMS. The “preparation and briefing” was ranked the most common design stage where CW causes occur, while “waiting” was ranked the most common form of CW. These findings informed the research outcome and helped in the development of the proposed strategy. Research limitations/implications The proposed strategy was developed taking into account the results of the survey questionnaire which was conducted in ADFs in Egypt where the authors reside, and such a strategy is needed. However, it could be applied in other countries that share the same characteristics of the architectural DP as well as the causes of CW and WMS implementation challenges. Practical implications This research presents a practical strategy to reduce CW generated during the DP. It was based on the findings of literature review, case studies and survey questionnaire. The strategy was explained in a workable way to include the required activities; tools and techniques; involved personnel and needed resources. The strategy was validated by a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to ensure its practicability and viability for implementation towards developing a sustainable built environment. The practical application of the strategy will have long-term and short-term benefits. The long-term benefits include improving the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainability during the design and construction phases in Egypt. In the short term, application of the strategy will improve the cooperation between design and construction teams, reduce the negative impact of CW production and enhance the quality of construction projects in Egypt. Originality/value Despite the need to reduce CW during DP, a practical strategy is lacking in Egypt, where laws are focused on dealing with CW after its existence. This research studied a topic that received scant attention in construction literature. It developed and validated a strategy to reduce CW during DP, which represents a synthesis that is novel and creative in thought and adds value in a manner that has not been previously explored.

Social representations of a group of ex-combatants on compliance with the Peace Agreement

Introduction: the peace process in Colombia, the signing of the Havana Treaty and its compliance, have been the subject of various investigations. Due to the long history of the conflict and the multiple attempts at pacification, the Peace Treaty represented an important opportunity to resolve deep-rooted social problems in the affected territories. Objective: the objective of the study was to describe the social representations of ex-combatants about the Peace Treaty. Methodology: a basic qualitative design based on observation, interview and triangulation of sources was implemented. Results: the main results point towards a social representation of variable polarity according to the specific points, the predominance of ideas and beliefs related to the construction of the future, a favorable appreciation of the transition and resistance related to the historical problems that generate the conflict. Conclusions: it is concluded that the representation of ex-combatants is marked by the idea that peace, as was the armed conflict, is a process that entails advances and setbacks.

The Design and Implementation of a Wide-band Circularly Polarized Conformal Antenna

Background: It gives out the design and verification of single-layer dual-band antenna unit and multi-layer dual-band broadband antenna unit of phased array antenna, and verifies that the multi-layer dual-band broadband antenna unit can meet the design requirements of the receiving frequency band. Objective: It gives out the design and implementation of a wide-band circularly polarized conformal antenna, and presents the characteristics analysis of the antenna. Method: Through related simulation methods, the proposed methods are verified and they can effectively solve the array phase compensation and beam shaping and control in the wide-band circularly polarized conformal antenna. Results: Based on the basic design of the antenna, the active superposition algorithm, phase compensation technology and particle swarm optimization antenna beam shaping technology are both studied. Conclusion: The proposed wide-band circularly polarized conformal antenna can be used in the actual application.

INTERDISCIPLINARY OUTLOOKS ON SHILPASHASTRAS: INTEGRATING ART, AESTHETICS AND SPIRITUALITY

This paper aims to explore the multidimensional possibilities of Shilpashastras, an ancient Indian recognised tradition about various disciplines - Shilpashastras, the ancient Indian texts on art, architecture, aesthetics and craftsmanship, represent an insightful source of knowledge that has significantly formed the cultural and artistic backdrop of the ancient India. Among these, Sangramansutradhara, Manasollas, Aparajitpreccha, Kashyapshilpshastra, shilpratnakar, 'Manasara Shilpa Shastra'etc. As an inclusive guide, investigating into the elaborate details of architectural and sculptural components found in temples and other structures. It precisely outlines philosophies of design, spatial geometry, and construction techniques, providing a complete view of temple architecture. The 'Vastu Shastra' additional covers the discourse by focusing on the main beliefs of design, layout, and three-dimensional prearrangement, offering an insightful considerate of how spaces can be organized to harmonize with cosmic dynamisms. This concise study aims to lighten the elaborate links between artistic expression, aesthetic principles, and spiritual symbolism essential in ancient Indian texts. Themes to be addressed include historical perspectives on the development of Shilpashastras, philosophical insights into their aesthetic foundations, the spiritual significance of symbols and iconography, contemporary applications in art and design, and strategies for cultural heritage preservation. It seeks to expedite dialogue and collaboration among scholars, artists, practitioners, and enthusiasts, enriching our understanding of ancient Indian iconography, approach to reflect a all-inclusive understanding of the relationship between art, architecture, and spirituality in ancient India, providing invaluable insights into the symbolic language and visual culture of the time.

Digital Shipbuilding – Needs, challenges, and opportunities

Ship design firms, shipyards, and ship equipment manufacturers – the shipbuilding industry or just shipbuilding, must adapt their products and services' deliverables to the steadily evolving expectations of the stakeholders in the market. Digitalization and the use of computational tools have been suggested as the effective means to meet such challenges. However, many anecdotal statements and industry recognitions have expressed concern that such efforts have proven less effective than should be expected and promised, and opposite to what many application suppliers advertise. It is argued by this paper that such a situation is experienced because of, among other explanatory factors, incompatibility, lack of proper protocols for information sharing and isolated implementation efforts in single departments rather than a holistic organizational approach. The lack of full understanding of the ship designer's role and responsibility as the main facilitator of such a change process is also recognized as a clear weakness in the effort of successful digitalization of shipbuilding. It is argued that such a vital transformation process cannot be left alone to the software application providers, despite their size and dominance. This paper explains and discusses why this situation is experienced and indicates what improvement measures could be introduced to counteract the opportunity loss. The article addresses five potential digital service deliverables that could complement the existing service delivery of shipbuilding operations and thereby increase competitiveness and market attractiveness. These services include a) vessel support and control centres, b) performance monitoring, c) maintenance management, d) spare part handling, and e) life cycle assessment (LCA). The article also reflects on what implications and consequences this development has on the ship designers' work and their firm's adaptation to new services' demand in the shipbuilding market. The paper concludes with some reflections on the actual implementation of these services, highlighting challenges and further opportunities.

Enhancing knowledge management in the engineering design process through a communication platform

AbstractIn today's competitive market, design firms are under pressure to enhance the speed of their decision-making processes to foster innovative products. Due to specialized nature of contemporary technology, enterprises are directed to consider Design for X factors during the product development process like environmental impact and production efficiency. This transformation leads to an increase in gaining knowledge from different fields. This paper presents a comprehensive framework for efficiently acquiring and applying knowledge, aimed at improving knowledge management and sharing practices.

Research on the Application of Three-Dimensional Virtual Reality Technology in Landscape Architecture Design

This study investigates the depth of and engaging experiences for designers and users could transform conventional landscape architecture design approaches through the use of 3D virtual reality technology. Research assesses the advantages and difficulties of using 3D virtual reality (VR) into landscape architectural practice by means of an extensive analysis of the body of current literature and case studies. The study looks into how 3D virtual reality (VR) technology affects the ideation, imagining, collaboration, and presentation phases of the architecture and landscape process of design. It examines how virtual reality simulations can improve communication among design teams, facilitate client engagement, and enhance decision-making processes. The study also looks at the practical and technical aspects of using 3D virtual reality technologies in landscaping design firms, including hardware requirements, software compatibility, and training requirements. In the end, the research's findings deepen our understanding of how 3D virtual reality technology might revolutionize landscape architecture, practice, and spur creative thinking in design processes.

A BPSO based collaborative management platform for multi-source data security in power grids

By designing a digital power grid multi-source data security collaborative management platform, the system configuration problem of the OMS system and the power grid management platform for the main distribution network of the power grid is solved. A design method for the digital power grid multi-source data security collaborative management platform based on discrete particle swarm optimization algorithm is proposed. Based on the design concept of SOA, realize the overall design framework of the platform according to the design method of multi-layer technical system in the business presentation layer, business process and composition layer, service layer, component layer and resource layer, realize the basic layer design of the system management platform through the basic application platform design scheme of XML configuration, implement the query, processing and output representation of the grid’s multivariate data using B/S architecture protocol, and use the Spring Framework The platform software architecture is implemented using J2EE technology and multi module component design scheme. The discrete particle swarm optimization algorithm is used for the fusion and scheduling of multi-source data in the digital power grid. The interface design and functional construction of the power grid management platform are implemented in the OMS system of the power grid main distribution network, and the logical model of the transformation project is constructed to achieve platform optimization and construction. Tests have shown that the designed digital power grid multi-source data security collaborative management platform has good human-machine interaction, strong data fusion scheduling ability, reduced resource and subsystem coupling, and supports the flexibility of physical deployment and maintenance.

A framework for eradicating women discrimination in architectural design firms in Egypt and GCC countries

PurposeThis research aims to develop and validate a framework for eradicating women’s discrimination in architectural design firms (ADFs) in Egypt and propose strategies for prospective adoption in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to increase the transformational impact of women on the architectural and urban developments of the Gulf region.Design/methodology/approachA combined qualitative and quantitative research approach was designed to accomplish four objectives. Firstly, to investigate the nature of business in ADFs, women’s discrimination and policies for gender equity (PGE) in architecture. Secondly, to analyse three case studies to validate the identified causes and impacts of women’s discrimination and examine the role of PGE towards eradicating women’s discrimination in ADFs. Thirdly, to conduct a survey questionnaire with a representative sample of ADFs to investigate their perception of women’s discrimination and the correlation between PGE towards eradicating women’s discrimination in ADFs. Based on the above, the research developed and validated a framework to eradicate women’s discrimination in ADFs in Egypt and suggested strategies for potential application in the GCC countries to increase the transformational role of women in the architectural and urban developments of the Gulf region.FindingsThrough literature review and case studies, the research identified and validated the causes and impacts of women’s discrimination as well as PGE in Architecture. The findings of data analysis showed that the highest-ranked causes of women discrimination in ADFs were “customs and beliefs” followed by “Underestimating women’s work” and “Recruiting males more than females”. Moreover, the highest-ranked impacts of women’s discrimination were “career shift and leaving the profession” followed by “decrease in creativity and innovation” and “decrease in economic growth”. Furthermore, the Spearman correlation test showed that while some PGE were correlated, others were not. These findings helped in the development of the proposed framework and proposed strategies.Practical implicationsThis research presents a practical framework to eliminate women’s discrimination in ADFs in Egypt based on the findings of literature review, case studies and survey questionnaire. The framework explained in a workable way the objectives of the framework functions; activities; tools and techniques; involved personnel and needed resources as well as enforcing mechanisms. It was validated by a representative sample of ADFs in Egypt to ensure its practicability and viability and suggested strategies for implementation in the GCC countries to increase women’s role in architectural and urban development.Originality/valueThe research identified and validated the causes and impacts of women’s discrimination as well as PGE in Architecture. Moreover, the research investigated the perception of women’s discrimination and the correlation between PGE through conducting a survey questionnaire with a representative of ADFs in Egypt. The research tackled a topic that received scant attention in construction literature, especially in Egypt and the GCC countries. The research developed and validated a framework to eradicate women’s discrimination in ADFs in Egypt. It represents a synthesis that is novel and creative in thought and adds value to the knowledge in a manner that has not previously occurred. The research suggested several strategies for the prospective implementation of the framework in the GCC countries as an approach to enhancing the transformational role of women in the architectural and urban developments of the Gulf region.

The influence of perceived country of origin image on Chinese consumers’ purchase intention of imported wine

PurposeThis study aims to examine how consumers’ propensity to purchase imported wines is influenced by their attitudes and perceptions toward the countries of origin (COO) of those wines.Design/methodology/approachThe questionnaires were distributed online and 298 valid completed questionnaires were received. This study measured the perception of the wines’ countries of origin by adopting two independent dimensions of competence and warmth in the stereotype content model.FindingsThe results show a relationship between the purchase intention and the perception of the country of origin of the wine. Furthermore, the perceived image of the country of origin impacts the brand image of the wine and the quality of wine from its country of origin.Research limitations/implicationsThis study’s questionnaire was distributed online. Future research would benefit from in-depth qualitative investigation and a wider range of sample sizes across countries.Practical implicationsThe results of this study guide imported wine companies in product marketing design and advertising. By promoting the countries of origin of premium wines to target consumers, trust in the quality of imported wine can be improved, thereby increasing consumers’ purchase intention.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the understanding of consumer perception of the country of origin in the context of wine marketing. It provides valuable implications for wine companies’ marketing positioning and strategy, benefiting wine marketers, distributors and importers.

Learning the ropes or walking a tight one? Exploring the factors of organizational assimilation in design firms

New employees often question their roles, expectations and fit within the workplace. Reducing these uncertainties is accomplished via a complex process of organizational assimilation (OA), which varies based on the individual, their workplace and environmental shifts. Evidence suggests the effects of organizational change may be especially pronounced in marginalized employees, not only among those from underrepresented groups but also from those lacking established professional networks (i.e. entry-level workers and organizational newcomers). While scholars in other fields have cited the importance of OA, little is known about its determinants in design. Understanding these factors is critical as the field seeks to diversify while facing changing norms. This study employed the Organizational Assimilation Index and Ragins and McFarlin’s Mentor Role Instrument to understand OA determinants. Responses from 92 emerging designers suggest that firm size, market sector and tenure bore little influence on OA. Yet those from underrepresented groups felt significantly less assimilated. Conversely, a mentor’s friendship, coaching and counselling can enhance assimilation. This study’s exploratory findings offer preliminary but important insights regarding those factors that may influence the assimilation of emerging designers. More specifically, it highlights the valuable role of mentorship while lending empirical evidence to potential challenges facing designers from underrepresented groups.

A brief stop on the design research journey

This editorial introduces Issue 10.1 which includes contributions on our understanding of designed artefacts and interactions, the possibilities of designed artefacts as forms of activism, the challenges of new recruits assimilating into design firms and an exploration of intersectional feminist thinking in design. Acknowledging the collective efforts of editorial teams, reviewers and authors from previous issues, the Editorial introduces the new editorial team and lays out ideas towards future issues.

Enhancing students’ performance on least taught topics in basic calculus through Moodle-based courseware package

This study utilized the developmental research design to identify the least taught topics in basic calculus and design and investigate the effectiveness of a Moodle-based courseware package. Data were collected from seven basic calculus teachers and five academic administrators through survey questionnaires, interviews, and validation sheets. The quasi-experimental phase of the study used a pre-/post-test control group design with a sample of 69 students, 34 students in the experimental group and 35 students in the control group. The experimental group received instruction using an asynchronous Moodle-based courseware package, while the control group received instruction through lecture notes. Results showed that the least taught topics include infinite limits, limits at infinity, and limits of trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions. These topics were least taught due to time constraints, students’ capacity, scheduling, complexity, and relatability. Validation of the courseware package showed a very high validity. It was found that the use of Moodle-based courseware package and lecture notes effectively increased the students’ performance. However, one-way analysis of covariance results showed that the experimental group gained considerably greater than those in the control group. It was recommended that teachers continue to update their knowledge of different teaching methodologies to develop an encouraging and dynamic learning environment.

Research on the Reform of the Course “Fundamental Principles of Engineering Structures” in the Context of School-Enterprise Cooperation and Integration of Production and Education

The course “Fundamental Principles of Engineering Structures” is one of the compulsory courses for undergraduate students majoring in civil engineering, structural engineering, and bridge engineering. It mainly introduces the basic concepts, principles, and design methods of engineering structures. The course’s emphasis lies in the integration of theory and practice, aiming to enable students to acquire fundamental theoretical knowledge of engineering structures in the classroom and to consolidate this knowledge through practical activities such as experiments and design, thereby enhancing their comprehensive abilities. Therefore, the teaching reform of the course on fundamental principles of engineering structures should start with improving students’ practical abilities and strive to achieve organic integration of theory and practice. This paper explores how the teaching reform of the course should be conducted against the backdrop of course ideological and political education, mainly focusing on the integration of school-enterprise cooperation and production-education integration. Firstly, the author analyzes the current issues and challenges from the perspectives of school-enterprise cooperation and production-education integration, and then proposes corresponding measures for the reform of course teaching, including establishing a curriculum system in line with modern engineering practices, fully leveraging the role of teaching design, and stimulating students’ interest in learning, among others. It is hoped that this research can provide some reference and inspiration for developing relevant teaching reforms in the course of fundamental principles of engineering structures.

Analysis and Characterization of Castellated Holes as RF Interconnects for Modular Millimeter-Wave Devices

This paper presents an innovative approach to the use of Castellated Holes or Plated Half Holes (PHH) as transmission elements for high frequency interconnections between printed circuit boards in a frequency range of up to 40 GHz. The basic design was examined using commonly used design parameters for PCB modules with Castellated Holes which were then investigated and subsequently optimized to improve their RF performance, with a particular focus on design considerations according to today’s industrial manufacturing capabilities. Therefore the FEM-based full wave simulation technique was used to compare and optimize the design parameters in the aim to improve the capability of PHHs as low-loss, low-disturbant RF interconnection alternative in modular PCB designs. Based on these results test samples were developed, which were subsequently measured and thus verified the findings of the simulation. To provide a general comparability, this study focused on the S-Parameter to quantify the performance in terms of transmission losses and reflection. With an optimized design feasible results were achieved with a maximum transmission loss of less than 2 dB at the maximum of the desired frequency range and about 1dB at 20 GHz over the entire signal path. These insights make PHHs suitable for seamless integration into modular designs in RF and millimeter-wave applications.