Architecture in Bits and Bytes. : Computer meditated communication in the architecture profession 1999

Abstract

Introduction According to a report produced for the Department of Industry and Trade in the UK, the use of virtual reality techniques(VRT) has helped architects improve efficiency and communication in architecture. Along with the statement there are a limited amount of studies that have treated the recent convergence of computer- and communication technology specifically in relation to architecture practice. In that regard, this paper seeks to examine the use of computer meditated communication (CMC) in the architecture profession. The intention is to diversify the notion of how information- and communication technologies (ICT) are interpreted and deployed by architects. The examination has adopted a theoretical approach witch denies us to treat anything technological- separately from a social context. In three UK case studies of architecture practice attention has therefore been made towards organisational contexts as these are constituting the ability of CMC to reinforce inter-activity in the architectural design process. The relationships between architects, clients and other professions are exemplified and analysed to indicate how the role of CMC is changing due to different architectural- and organisational requirements. Drawing upon the experience from the case studies, this paper suggests that strategy, structure and design-philosophy are organisational characteristics that influences the function of CMC in architecture practice. While these are contexts changing from company to company, an image-enhancing role of ICT is regarded important for all practices to consider in «information society».