B5 - Group D - Samuel Kim - Uses of databases in design offices

Database is an organized collection of data that can be accessed in various ways. Construction design projects generate enormous and complex set of information. Effectively managing this bulk of information to insure its availability and accuracy is a important task. Poor or missing information can readily lead to project delays, uneconomical decisions, or even the complete failure of the desired facility. With better information, the problem could have been identified earlier therefore, corrective action can be taken to minimize the negative outcome. Both project design and control are crucially dependent upon accurate and timely information, as well as the ability to use this information effectively. At the same time, too much unorganized information presented to managers can result in confusion and paralysis of decision making.

Database is extremely helpful because it is designed to store only useful and required data. When doing a design work of a building, relative information can be matched and found through database. For example, building performance database (BPD) has grown to include over 800,000 records from existing residential and commercial buildings across the country. This data base has quality information on energy performance in buildings. By utilizing this database, the best energy performance design can be found and applied to the new design. The energy related information in buildings allows users to make key decisions on energy efficiency projects, policies and programs.

As a building designer information gathering is critical for building design’s compatibility. By utilizing various databases, the designer can ensure to deliver quality design to consumers.

Sources:
http://searchsqlserver.techtarget.com/definition/database
https://searchworks.stanford.edu/databases


Comments:

Chris Sager

You explained very well with how database can be found in different forms. Since database is made with abundant information in various type, at times it can be difficult to utilize the system. However, databases’ improved searching features will reduce the search time, proving necessary information quickly

Joe Dressel

The object oriented database management system is which an information is represented in the form of objects as used in object-oriented programing. It provides all the facilities associated with object oriented paradigm. I agree how you mentioned one must understand relational databases for a deeper understanding of object related databases.

Peter Dannemann

As you mentioned in your conclusion, object oriented databases allow data bases to function at a higher capacity, therefore it is favored by many users. Since the information storage is improved, I wish that there are more advances with search technology within databases.