Programming

Chapter 25 Interior Design Reference Manual

Definition
Programming is a process
during which information
about a problem is
collected, analyzed, and
clearly stated to provide a
basis for design.
It defines a problem before
a solution is attempted.
Programming is problem
analysis whereas design is
problem synthesis.

Information Gathering

Client's specific needs

Analysis of existing building
Aesthetic considerations
Space needs
Adjacency needs
Codes review
Budget requirements
Scheduling requirements
Human factors
Environmental responsibility
Social and cultural influences

Programming process
Small projects may require
statement of goals and a list
of spaces and furniture/
equipment needs
Large projects will require
large bound volumes
Link to more information on
programming:
http://www.wbdg.org/design/dd_archprogramming.
php

5-Step process
1) Establish goals: what the client wants to achieve and why. Know the
objectives the client is trying to reach with each space.
2) Collect and analyze facts: existing conditions, number of people to
accommodate, space adjacencies, user characteristics, existing
building parameters, expected growth, budget, etc
3) Uncover and test concepts: develop abstract ideas that are functional
solutions to the clients problems without defining the physical means
that could be used to solve them. A programmatic concept is a
performance requirement related to methods of solving a problem or
satisfying a need. Example: provide a medium level of security to
protect against theft of merchandise without making the security
methods obvious. The Design concept will identify specific physical
responses that attempt to achieve a programatic goal. Example:
Provide a central cash/ wrap station at the entry/exit point of the
store.

5-Step Process
4) Determine needs: balance desires with available
budget. Separate wants from needs. Determine
quantity, quality, budget, and time frame.
5) Stating the problem: succinctly state the essence of
the problem- the most important aspects of the
problem that serves as the basis for design and as
criteria by which the solution can be evaluated. Focus
on form, function, economy, and time. The problem
statement is the bridge between programming and the
design process and should be agreed upon by the
client and programmer/ designer.

Major Considerations
Form: existing conditions, physical and psychological
environment, quality of construction.
Function: how people will use the space, activities to be
performed, adjacencies
Economy: initial cost, operating costs, and life-cycle
costs
Time: scheduling considerations, and need to expand

Programmatic Concepts
Your homework is to identify abstract ideas on how to solve
performance problems in the KHH. Areas to work on for next
class include:
Prioritizing the spaces to renovate by most needed to
least important
Identify the overall character- image to be portrayed
Identify overall goals/objectives
Start working on programming document template.
Identify Activities by space

Program Format
Typed document that is easy to scan. Refer to template.
State the overall goals for the design project. (ie: to increase
sales by updating the image of the store)
List individual space and its sq. footages
Identify the function of individual space such as "to improve
circulation and personal interaction among departments.
State the problem for the space
List adjacencies
List activities
List furniture and equipment needs.
Other special needs such as lighting, acoustics, flexibility,
electrical etc.
Sketch existing conditions

Human factors
The field of human factors involves the correctness of fit
between objects and spaces and the needs of people using
those objects and spaces
Anthropometrics: the measurement of the size, proportions,
and range of motion of the human body.
Ergonomics: the study of the relation between human
physiology and the physical environment. It uses the
information developed by anthropometrics, but it goes further
by studying exactly how humans interact with physical objects
such as chairs, control panels, and desks. Adjustability
between different users is important.
Human comfort: based on the quality of the environmental
factors such as temperature, humidity, air movement, air
quality, sound and light.