An exploration of the choosing by advantages decision system as a user engagement tool in participatory design

ABSTRACT The significance of user involvement in design process towards generating value remains uncontested. It is however a challenge to identify the most appropriate strategy for engaging users to effectively participate in design process. This paper explores the suitability of the choosing by advantages (CBA) decision system for designers to engage users in design process. The paper specifically reports on a case application of CBA to make a typical design decision, such as the choice of a mode of operation of window openings, in the design of a three-storey lecture theatre at Takoradi Polytechnic in Takoradi, Ghana. A workshop, involving various stakeholders, including potential users of the project, was organized to apply CBA to choose among various modes of operation of window openings: louvres, sliding, awning, casement and pivoted. Findings, which were based on an active participation of a key member of the research team in the workshop, were further corroborated by direct observation and interview with some participants in the workshop. The findings point to CBA as a decision system capable of creating a collaborative forum for designers to engage users in design decisions.

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