Methodology

Our methodology is distinguished by
  • an innovative approach to representing and modeling built patterns
  • an understanding of decision-making realities
To this we add
  • years of hands-on experience
  • ongoing research & development
  • effective written, oral and graphic communication

Shape-networks™

analysis and diagnosis of spatial and visual configurations

Shape-network analysis is a rigorous, rapid and unobtrusive process that decomposes a configuration like a floor plan or elevation and transforms it into a network enabling quantitative and graphic analysis. One of a class of methods using discrete geometry that have been scientifically verified and court tested, shape-network methods provide clear evidence of comparative differences: before-after; functional-dysfunctional; total-partial; ours-theirs; standard-substandard.

Shape-network analysis will help diagnose a layout to identify weaknesses affecting social and economic outcomes and will show how to configure interior spaces to optimize productivity and exterior spaces to make them lively and attractive. It will help identify informational regularities and irregularities in visual patterns and show these could be perceived.

The difference between this approach and conventional analytic approaches in these areas is the difference between an MRI and an x-ray image. But even when we do not need to use the full capability of shape-networks, they provide a robust framework for information gathering and evaluation. A brief example is in this pdf.

Decision threads

identification of rational and non-rational preference sequences in their time-space contexts

Some decisions are made systematically and rationally; others intuitively and speculatively. Both twist across each other and are impacted in different ways by the contexts of information used in making choices. Built environments are a key information context generated and used in these choices.

Understanding decision thread patterns aids in reconstruction of past choices — both routine and exceptional — and in the clarification of alternatives for future choices. It assists in addressing issues involving built environments particularly with respect to latent conditions, foreseeability, habituation, dysfunctionality, counter-factuality and obsolescence.

Combined with shape-networks, they help understand how conscious and unconscious decisions are woven into and may derive from built environments. A significant part of our expertise focuses on the impact of physical environments on human cognition, in addition to physical/ mechanical actions — whether designs, configurations and signs give useful or misleading cues or information to the users. As a result, we are able to address many problems involving pedestrian movement.

Tools

digital, analog

Digital technologies have enabled firms like Space Analytics to emerge and make important contributions. We use computing and digital information technologies to the full extent that they support our methods and deliver value. They enable much of our work to be done at a distance. But we balance their use judiciously with more conventional analog tools including on-site visits which we incorporate into our work at critical junctures in analysis and diagnosis. We use information to produce useful knowledge and support sound decisions, not just more information that has to be deciphered.