Communication in design: an investigation of briefing techniques for a house design

Abstract

A case study approach is used to investigate methods of briefing for a house design. Preliminary information for the brief, referred to as input data, is collected in the traditional manner, by interviews and discussion. Any information which is still lacking is obtained by presenting the clients with a structured series of statements and photographs, related to the information required. The intention is to provoke responses rather than to ask the clients directly to offer opinions. The techniques adopted for collecting input data necessitated greater client involvement than usual. The inputs are fed back to the clients for confirmation, so continuing their involvement throughout the design process. Along with other requirements for the brief, the inputs are recorded in a diary. A classification system, developed by the author to enable easy retrieval orders the inputs. The summary of the total information in the system together with clients' personal statements, forms the brief. Clients' feedback and new inputs are added to the brief throughout the design process. The briefing techniques used are adaptable to any situation where continuing communication with the client(s) is possible, by varying the content to suit the required inputs. The classification system is adaptable to larger scale jobs in a more complex form. These methods of collecting and classifying information present the opportunity for greater client involvement and understanding, which may begin to bridge the gap between professional and client.