CAD software as customisation tools: Using FBS protocol coding scheme to understand the behaviour of mass customisers

Abstract

This paper explores the use of CAD software as tools in mass customisation systems and discusses using protocol study methods to analyse the interactions between customers and customisation tools. Current uses of CAD software as customisation tools will be presented. The use of the Function-Behaviour- Structure coding scheme to analyse protocols from customisation sessions is discussed. A protocol from Puma footwear customisation is analysed using the LINKOgrapher software and the results presented. The paper concludes with a discussion on the utility of computational support tools to study designers/customers utilizing CAD tools for mass customisation. ©2011, Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA).