Visualizations in the planning process

Abstract

Visualizations are playing an important role in the formulation and communication of design concepts. Various types of visualizations are being used in the planning process for the presentation of architectural design projects and planning scenarios. This study examines the process of working with visualizations in planning in Norway, and how it is being used as a means to communicate information. Two types of pilot studies were conducted. The first was a survey that sought to find out what visualization is being used by planners in Norway today. The second study was conducted in the Virtual Reality laboratory at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences and explored how different methods of visualization is being understood and experienced by lay people and professionals. Despite the fact that 2D visualizations (e.g. maps, floor plans, sections, elevations) and BIM visualizations can prove to be less engaging and understandable compared to 3D realistic model visualizations, the findings indicates that the use of mixed methods can provide a better overall understanding of a project. © 2014, The Association for Computer-Aided Architectural Design Research in Asia (CAADRIA), Hong Kong.