Integration of parametric modeling tools in small architectural offices – between constraints and organizational strategies

ABSTRACT In order to succeed in today’s disruptive world, architects have to constantly reevaluate their strategies and innovate. Consequently, some architectural offices have started to implement parametric modeling tools to support their ideation work. Architectural studies consider how such technologies impact the design process, cognitive processes or generation of representations. This paper looks at the impact of this approach from another angle, which relates to the organization; it focuses on parametric modeling adoption and on how parametric modeling tools and organizational aspects of small offices impact each other. While parametric modeling is announced to be widely adapted, we give an overview of parametric practices in small and medium Belgian architectural offices, which represent the largest part of the market but are generally left aside in studies. This paper divides into four categories the main barriers and enablers architectural small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are confronted with, when adopting parametric modeling. These lead to a system of constraints in which the architectural practice evolves. The research observes the management of parametric workflows in SMEs and situates the parametric modeling tool within the theoretical framework of organizations. This study will help understand some of the factors limiting the adoption of those tools in SMEs and will help architects when developing their strategy of adoption.