Course content

The course will give an introduction to and knowledge about methods and tools for analyzing and defining needs and requirements for an organisation, and evaluation of building in use for learning and knowledge transfer. Weight will be on a basic understanding of the relation between an organisation, its users and the physical environments regarding the overall vision and objectives for the organisation. The course will focus on the programming process, which extend from the very first project idea with needs- and activity analysis, up to completed building program. The topics covered: the contents of a program, which actors are participating, obtaining and analysing information and different working methods/ techniques which are used in the programming process, the content of a program document according to NS 3455 (Building Function Table). Different techniques used for evaluation of buildings after completion, are examined. The course will review various techniques for evaluation of buildings in use as the basis for programming of new buildings, and assessment and reprogramming of existing buildings. There will be an emphasis on case studies and workshops related to the theory presented. The project assignment includes analysis of program and framework for a building project, and / or an evaluation of a building in use.

Learning outcome

KNOWLEDGE - the student • has in-depth knowledge about different programs, the content and the relation to the Construction process as a whole • has good knowledge about different programming methods and systems for structuring information to analyze and define the requirements / needs of a business • has in-depth knowledge of the concept usability, framework that can be used and methods for evaluating buildings in use ABILITY - the student • can conduct analyzes of a business, an organization, the work processes and the physical environment • is able to evaluate the usability based on the methods and tools presented in the course • can analyze findings and make a comprehensive assessment of the usability related to a business' objectives • can use relevant theories and empiry to discuss findings and make recommendations on improvements based on this GENERAL COMPETENCE - the student • has an overall understanding of the interaction between an organization, users and the physical environment in relation to the overall objectives of the organization • has an understanding of how different relationships related to organization, technology, physical environment and other factors affect the usability • has a good understanding of the relation between programming and evaluation, and how to use experiences from buildings in use • can use relevant academic terms and expressions and disseminate results from project work both in a structured and clear manner

Learning methods and activities

The learning activities consist of lectures and workshops that will provide a knowledge base and understanding of the subject area as a basis for working with project assignments linked to concrete cases. An important purpose of the case study is to evaluate a business using different methods, and to discuss the design of areas and physical surroundings with regard to the usability of workplaces. The type of case and businesses to be studied can vary, but are linked to current discussions and topics. Exercises and project assignment primarily as group work, but individual work can be considered if there are special reasons.

This course is offered to incoming exchange students and will be thought in English if necessary.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

Completed three years basic courses in architecture, bachelor in architecture or equivalent.

Required previous knowledge

Completed three years basic courses in architecture, geography, planning, civil engineering, economics, real estate / facility management or equivalent bachelor degrees.

Requires good language skills in Norwegian.

Course materials

Hansen, G K (2019) Samspillet i byggeprosessen. Fagbokforlaget.

NS3455 Bygningsfunkjsonstabellen

Different course material and selected textbooks.