Data for generative layout planning programs

Abstract

The use of computer programs for the layout planning of buildings requires some form of input data defining the relationships between activities. This data may be given on a derived rating scale (subjective data) or in terms of measured movement interchange (continuous data).

The collection of continuous data can be a time consuming and costly process. Experimental work using a generative (construction-type) layout planning program identifies the effects of varying the precision of continuous data and indicates that more approximate forms than those presently employed may yield acceptable layout solutions.