Connected design decision networks: Multidisciplinary decision support for early building design LCA

Abstract

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) has become the standard method to evaluate environmental impact throughout the life cycle of buildings. However, detailed data about the future building as well as knowledge about the mutual influence of decisions concerning the various disciplines involved are often missing in early design phases, otherwise known to bear the highest potential for emissions savings. Hence, a meaningful basis for decision making is lacking. This study suggests a method to digitally represent decisions and their interdependencies in early design phases and visualize their possible consequences for the life cycle of the future building. The method is based on identification of relevant processes and tasks concerning architecture and Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC). Decisions trees of these tasks are used as a point of departure. Connecting the decision trees to a multidimensional, Connected Design Decision Network (CDDN) enables an interdisciplinary design team to pinpoint strategic decision nodes with comparatively more interdependencies with other subsets and high influence on LCA results. We believe that a transparent decision making in early design stages can be valuable to both the design team as well as clients and contractors and bear potential for an increased mutual awareness minimizing late and expensive redesigns.