Optimising design objectives using the Balanced Scorecard approach

There are difficulties in designing buildings to satisfy various design objectives which could be abstract, ill-defined and conflicting. Furthermore, as design objectives are usually interrelated or even competing, optimisation amongst different objectives becomes necessary. In this paper, an optimisation approach for design management has been developed by adapting the Balanced Scorecard methodology, as a versatile aid to existing practice of priortising clients' requirements. The adapted Balanced Scorecard translates design objectives into actionable goals and measures, which make it easier for designers to ensure efficient and effective designs. The proposed Balanced Scorecard approach was considered in a focus group meeting as being capable of facilitating communication between the clients and design professionals, and serving the purpose of optimising various design objectives.