Johnson - B7 Course Reflection

I really enjoyed taking this course.  It was very self-guided, which was incredibly satisfying.  You certainly got out what you put into the class.  The research was really interesting because it is information you would never get from another class.  We got a glimpse into the future of our industry by studying how A.I., robots, and BIM will all be integrated, and they are all basically in their initial stages.  The class made me not only consider my future profession in contracting, but also made me think about how it will be different in 5 to 10 years.  Understanding the technology that will be used in the future will keep me prepared and hopefully a more valuable employee.

The freedom allowed from the final project basically allowed for us to research any topic or work on anything we wanted, so long as it fit into the class categories.  This allowed my partner, Brad, and I to research a topic that was not only interesting but also a technology that may end up becoming a norm in the construction industry.  Our research project was on 3D laser scanning and how it connects all professions within the construction industry.  If we ever see scanning being used on a project, we will know how to handle it with knowledge that a typical engineer may not have. 

In addition to the new research that I was able to do, the class also provided a great foundation of knowledge within both BIM and databases.  Revit is a crucial part of any concentration of architectural engineering, so it is important to graduate with as much knowledge of the program as possible.  Creating and editing families is a crucial part of Revit and will be used across all disciplines.  It certainly would have helped for my past coop experiences where I edited families incorrectly.  In addition to BIM technologies, it really helped to have a base knowledge of what a database is, what it does, and how to make one.  Databases can help connect different categories and record certain values for future use.  After the database is created, it is simple to add new parts to the table to expand upon historical data.

Overall, the class is a really good experience.  It allows the students to do independent research based on their own interests due to its “loose” structure.  Its refreshing to take a class that is not strictly by the book.  It also helps students understand that the industry is constantly changing.  To be successful, we must accept change and adapt to new work environments.  There are so many technologies we learned about that are just being started up that will probably be in regular practice 10 years from now and will probably be outdated 10 years after that.  It is important to continue researching so that we do not fall behind the times.

Comments:

1) Deutsch
Alyssia,
I thought you made a good point about not really thinking outside your concentration. Since you are structural, you always think in terms of structural design. I think the class did a good job of pushing students to see aspects of the industry from different perspectives and how other aspects can apply to you, even if they are indirect relationships. I also agree that the research and collaboration aspects of the course were some of the most helpful as they helped you hear how other people view the topics. Overall, it gave a great base knowledge and helped build understanding for other's views.

2) V. A.
Mariano,
I agree that it was tough to understand how sensors and robotics would actually have a great impact on the future of the construction industry before taking the class. Understanding sensors and what they do is crucial for everyone in our line of work. We had a motion sensor on site for one of my coop jobs that would constantly go off. My company would get calls trying to figure out why they were getting high activity readings which was actually just because of wind and not our work. Sensors are important for regulating but it is also important to understand what could be causing different readings when you are on the wrong end of it. They will only get more prevalent in construction as people want to always know what is taking place.

3) Anibaba
Malik,
I absolutely agree that the blog posts were helpful in not only making us research a weekly topic but also getting feedback and seeing different perspectives. This is not only good for the class but also helps when we need to work with others with different backgrounds in the field. The class helped us understand more about our future work and what we will end up dealing with in terms of technology. AE410 was able to teach us both new technical skills with BIM and databases, as well as develop an understanding of what technologies we will face in the future as we advance in our careers.

Gibson B5 - Databases in Construction Firms

My article discussed how Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a new system that can replace humans and actually outscored 615 of 906 human teams at the last three science competitions. The first prototype seemed to work very well after performing better than more than half of human teams. This device is called "Data Science Machine" (DSM).  The DSM was able to produce answers to these science problems with 87%-96% accuracy, however, it took human teams of scientist all around the world months compared to the 2-12 hours the machine took. The massive amount of data that this device can run through can be crucial to the time-consuming design of a structure. By using different tables and charts of data in the DSM, it can help project cost and time. These are two key factors that are lacking in the construction world.

With this type of precision and accuracy, simple design calculations will not need to be redone or take up any time excess time allowing engineers to quickly check its work and move on to other ongoing projects. In the construction world time is money and this device can be greatly taken advantage of in major construction firms to increase overall efficiency
.
Response 1: Jacob Wahbeh
Jacob, after reading your post I better understand how databases and BIM work together. These incorporated BIM databases would have made my second co-op so much easier and available to access at any time.

Response 2: Dee Dee Strohl
Dee Dee, I really enjoyed your post and your definition of what an actual database is. I struggle with the types of databases and complexity of them. I appreciate how you broke a database down from different points of views.

Response 3:Shuyuan Zhang
Shuyuan, I like your definition of what a database is to you in your own words. Again this and the previously read post have given me a strong idea of what a database is and how exactly it can work. Your co-op experience is pretty interesting as I was on the other side of the design team (structural), so reading your techniques used in HVAC design helped me realize the big picture of how it all goes together.

Source:
https://scitechdaily.com/data-science-machine-replaces-human-intuition-with-algorithms/

Dee Dee Strohl - Blog 5

Uses of databases in design offices

What is a database?

A database is a computerized system that stores information that can be easily searched and selected. It is a collection of records that contain one or more fields (pieces of data) about some entity (object). This can be used in many applications; like libraries keeping track of available and checked out books, or a company who’s stored all employee information. There are a few types of databases that can be used: flat, hierarchical, network, and relational. Though Excel can and is used for a plenty of projects in design offices (and beyond), using a database is more capable with respect to large, complex projects that contain a lot of data or pieces. Databases are also attractive because several people can access and edit information at the same time.

From a design office perspective:

From an architectural or engineering firm perspective, using a database could be helpful in several applications. A database could be created to keep all client information and the projects associated with them. From working in an engineering firm, I’ve seen that different clients have specific requirements for building design and construction. Having a database to contain all the client information and specifications would be helpful. Especially because you can search for distinct words/requirements in the database easily. The database, and thus the information, can be accessed remotely and files are easily backed up to prevent losing work and edits.

From an owner perspective:

With databases, it’s easier for owners to share information with design firms and track progress. It makes finding documentation on both ends easier. Besides having access to a database for the design process, owners could create a database to use once the building is construction and in use. Information about the performance of the building systems, building automation, or life cycle could be track by looking at past and present data.

From a general perspective:

Because databases are becoming more and more used, the sharing of information has gotten easier. Different firms and people can share their projects or technologies with the world through them, making processes easier and more efficient. Even throughout college, databases have made it easier to research for classes and papers. This is particularly seen from the Drexel Libraries system, which allows you to search thousands of articles and journals with just a few keywords. It can also be helpful from a marketing perspective because everything is easily accessible.

Sources:

 “Architectural File Management Systems and Database,” Human Service Solutions. Accessed 2/11/18. https://www.hswsolutions.com/work/case-studies/architecture-file-management-database/

“Database Definition,” The Linux Information Project. Accessed 2/11/18. http://www.linfo.org/database.html

“How to Better Manage Your Project Data,” Archsmarter. Accessed 2/11/18. http://archsmarter.com/manage-project-data/

COMMENTS:

Isaac Quelly:

It’s awesome that you got to look at the GSI project and database in its early stages. I see why it’s important for every step of the design and build process to be tracked and added to the database and how it could be troublesome if changes are made without the correct procedure. Do you think the PWD has done anything to keep this issue from occurring in projects? Do you think the implementation of this technology will continue? I know when I worked at the city people were hesitant to take on new procedures.

Luciana Tangari:

Like you, I know nothing about object oriented databases (I honestly barely understand the types of databases as a whole). The analogy you added to your post was very helpful in gaining a better understanding of OODMS and relational databases. It’s interesting that OODMS can handle such complex data but makes it easier to access. I’m still not completely sure I understand OODMS, but your post helped me at least gain a bit of knowledge on the topic.

Dung Tran:

Thanks for giving me an understanding of what a relational database is. I ready in Luciana’s post about OODMS so it was nice to read about the other side of the coin. It’s interesting that in this type of database tables can be defined with constraints or algorithms but also don’t have to be. The images you included also made your (and Darwen’s) explanation easier to understand.

Johnson - B5: Databases in Design

            Databases are now being used for design work in all aspects of architectural design.  This integration is making designers’ work easier by saving and classifying different tools and built objects in BIM.  Using relational databases can help create new tools that help change minor details in the project.  They can be attached to different properties of building elements to quickly edit heights, sizes, or other properties with a click of a button or moving a slide bar.  Dynamo, a program that links with Revit, allows for this.  There are several editing tools that relate to another piece of the project.  The video of the Dynamo example shows how they can create a structure completely in Dynamo by creating a repeated design and then defining the space that it will cover.  They can even change the materials and how the roof curves throughout the structure.

            The Dynamo program is driven by SQL.  This is a database program that allows Dynamo to feed the tables in Revit.  SQL can be coded to set objects into categories such as furniture and can be pulled from Revit into an easy to understand table.  This will allow you to pull all the information for a particular type of object.  As the SQL code expands, you can get more specific in what you would like to look at.  If a client would like to see all the types of chairs he or she was getting in a design, the designer could easily go into SQL and pull that data for an easy to understand chart for the client.  This is much easier than setting up a furniture schedule and then having to just highlight all the chairs in the project.

            The same procedure can be done with the rooms of a project.  Once all the data is collected, then they can be sorted using SQL to show what furniture is in which room.  This is just one example of the power of relational databases in design.  This can be done for any part of piece of a design project.  This will ultimately make communication between the owner and the designer easier.  They can create quick lists during the design process to give updates and keep records of the design at certain times. 

Resources:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h0Sk1w7xU4Q

https://revitbeyondbim.wordpress.com/2015/09/09/driving-a-sql-database-with-dynamo/

Responses:

1) DiGiovanni:

Brad,
It sounds like you found a great article that you could combine with your personal knowledge of the industry. I agree that it would be incredibly beneficial for design firms to have databases filled with information from sensors on previous projects. Since design firms typically specialize in a certain type of building or facility, most of their jobs tend to be very similar. They also probably work for some of the same owners repeatedly. They could know what the design did for those previous projects and make small changes to reach the goals that the owner sets out for them in contract. Although the contracts you mention are very harsh to the designers, it would still be incredibly useful for them to understand exactly how their design actually runs. One of the big issues of this type of contract is how the contractor builds the facility. If the design is not built properly, this may have an impact on the expectations of the design. This alter the actual data collected and may leave the design firm misinformed.

2) Wahbeh:

Jacob,
I think you found several benefits to database technology for the construction industry. Being able to access the drawings virtually from site is a major bonus for contractors. Although this does not replace the typical paper drawings, contractors can receive updates faster and keep the project on schedule. Also, one of the most important aspects of being a constructor is keeping records. With all revisions, change orders, and RFIs kept in database collection, they will not be lost in translation. These are crucial for finding when and where these parts were sent. This allows a better defense for contractors or designers when trying to find faults on the project.

3) Zhang:

Shuyuan,
You made a very good point about the subcontractors only getting the information they need for the project. With all of the design typically coming in one package, it can be difficult to sort through all the disciplines to find what specific contractors may need. With databases, it is easy to sort the data out into different categories. This allows all plumbing aspects to go to the plumber, all electrical aspects to the electrician, etc. This saves time and effort typically for the contractor. The general contractor still needs to make sure everything is coordinated correctly, this may not be as necessary for the subs. If the information can move more easily, the project typically moves smoother and faster.

Quelly Wk 6-1: B5, Databases in Construction

B5: Functionality of Databases during Construction

With my little experience in construction management (working as a construction inspector for PWD), one of the main challenges I faced on the job site was the communication of information from the clients (the PWD design engineers) to the contractor, and back (to me in the field). As database technology continues to develop, there is therefore an increasing applicability in the construction process.

B5 - Uses of databases in design offices

Uses of databases in design offices

In order to understand what is the use of database for design offices one must understand the proper definition of database, because some may mistake excel for being a database due to its data recording capabilities as it’s similar to the concept of a database where it stores and records data.

What is database?

“Database is a gathered collection of information that is structured according to the relationship of data with one another for each access and management” (Kilkelly, ArchSmarter).Managing a database includes but not limited to entering, deleting, and exporting data. Example of database management system that are used to design database are MS Access, MySQL, FileMaker, and Oracle.

What is Excel?

Excel is a spreadsheet that is use primarily for analyzation of data, while it cannot handle very large amount of recorded data as a database.

Database Vs Excel

“Databases are designed to in a way to refer to information without actually requiring to load all of the information into memory.” (Valentina-db)

The following table below compares “MS Excel” to “MS Access”, which gives an idea of what’s the difference between a database such as Access and a spread sheet such as Excel.

(Source: Gavin, Excel Vs. Access)

How may database be used for design office

For large projects that contain many requirements in terms of the architectural and engineering design aspect, a database may be used to record and track data, where the database is structured based on the considerations of the owner’s requirements, requirements completed, requirements need to be completed, problems required to be solved, solved problems, and their solution, keeping track of whose working on what and who changed what. In addition to storing data such as before and after files, which is beneficial for reverse of change if required.

Other use of database may be for file management purposes, where files can be accessed, downloaded and edited from anywhere. In addition to securing the files by controlling who can and can’t access the database for a certain project.

Other benefits of a database for design offices is recording client’s information such as address, name, phone number, projects previously worked on and details such as cost, change orders, etc. Keeping track of issues or change orders with clients would be beneficial for creating a better strategy for future projects if any. In addition, keeping track of the office’s performance compared to the past days, weeks, months and years.  

Reading

“What is in a Database and Why Excel IS NOT a Database.” Valentina-Db, 4 Feb. 2017, www.valentina-db.com/dokuwiki/doku.php?id=valentina:products:adk:v4rev:howto:databases_from_zero:what_is_in_a_database_and_why_excel_isnt_a_database.

Phillips, Gavin. “Excel Vs. Access – Can a Spreadsheet Replace a Database?” MakeUseOf, 7 Nov. 2014, www.makeuseof.com/tag/excel-vs-access-can-spreadsheet-replace-database/.

Kilkelly, Michael. “How to Better Manage Your Project Data (or the Architect's guide to databases) - ArchSmarter -.” ArchSmarter, 17 Mar. 2015, archsmarter.com/manage-project-data/.

Summerfield, Jason. “Architectural File Management System & Database.” HSS Web Technologies, www.hswsolutions.com/work/case-studies/architecture-file-management-database/.

Migrator. “Benefits of database development.” Nibusinessinfo.co.uk, 8 Dec. 2017, www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/benefits-database-development.

Comments:

B5- Databases in Construction Firms

christhach 

 I would like to point out that construction firms, and firms involved with estimating highly depend on historical data of past projects aside from RS Means, because in some cases it may be more reliable than RS Means especially for productivity rates which are used for scheduling purposes. So even if RS Means produces an online version to it, these firms would still be more dependent on their historical data.

Object Oriented Databases - Hillinger

 Carlos Hillinger

Carlos,

The examples of capabilities of relation and object-oriented database that you have given in your discussion have been useful. However, I don’t see how entities, relationships and attributes make a database, where I feel it would have been beneficial if you would have given a simple example to that and how may they be related.

Sarah Hollis - SQL

 Sarah Hollis

I appreciate the advantage of the disadvantage you have mentioned in regard to SQL, where it’s interesting how simple stuff such as dates, and not being able to distinguish a capital letter from a none capital letter.

Uses of Databases in Construction

Zac Arnold 

You have done a great job with mentioning what are the capabilities of database use in construction. I have always heard of CMiC, but I never really knew what are its capabilities. I never even really considered it as database up until I’ve learned more about database by reading your discussion. In addition to reading others discussions about what database are or could be.   

B5-Object Oriented Database - Tangari

Object Oriented Database

An object oriented database or an object database management system (ODBMS) stores objects rather than data such as ingriedents, strings of real numbers. These objects are used in various languages such as C++ and Java.  They can contain attributes which is data that defines characteristics of an object and there are methods which define the behavior of an object.  These systems support the modelling and creation of the data as an object. The idea is that the object orientated database concepts can be superimposed on relational databases which are more commonly used.

Object Databases are a good choice for use in businesses that are high performing on complex data. This database is also used for less complex data because it allows for a smaller team and faster development because there is only one data model.  This database offers many advantages such as reduced maintenance, code reusability, real world modeling and improved reliability and flexibility. Real world modeling here has a more complete fashion where objects are organized into classes of objects and objects are associated with behaviors, its focus is on objects and not processing.

After to reading through the material that lead me to these above conclusions, my understanding of object oriented databases was still pretty weak.  With the video found through the following link my understanding is a more solid. Object oriented databases are better equip for storing complex data in comparison to relational databases which can store simpler data like employees names and hire dates where orientated data bases can store media, graphics, CAD and even geographical satellite information.  There is a terrific analogy referring the two to cars where OODMS is like a car that you drive into a parking garage and turn off the engine until you are ready to use it but relational data base you would have to break down the car into parts, put the pieces on different shelves then put it back together the next time you want to use it which leads to mistakes and errors.  A special language would be needed to put the relational information together as intended where OODMS would need no such language only to be told to start. Allowing data to be found where relational you would have to lock the table to change just one thing. Now I understand OODMS is capable of holding more complex data but is capable of being accused quickly and efficiently.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7v_5vfTKDVs

http://searchoracle.techtarget.com/definition/object-oriented-database-management-system

https://www.service-architecture.com/articles/object-oriented-databases/when_an_object_database_should_be_used.html

http://www.dba-oracle.com/t_object_oriented_approach.htm


Jianfeng Xiao
I like how you found an article that was able to relate back to how object oriented data bases could be used in creating a design. Having tools that are able to calculate data in an efficient and fast way such as the application you discussed will help designers and engineers make their projects more efficient and more functional.

Chris Thach
I agree that databases have come a long way in the construction world. Working on several projects over co-ops, I have seen how important databases can be even to keep track of small things such as employees, work hours, project hours and so on. This not only helps to keep projects organized and efficient but by being able to reference information in a quick and easy to use database allows for companies to be more liable and have proof and back up if something was to occur or if plans deviated from what was intended.

Carlos Hillinger
Your description of the difference between the two was great, I wish I had read it before performing my own research to get a better foundation of the difference. Some definitions out there are very complex and just understanding objects like photos and videos are what is put into object data bases versus code used for relational databases helps to understand why object orientated databases may be easier to manage.

Jianfeng Xiao - Blog 5 - Use of Database in Design

From Wikipedia, it is clear to know that a database is an organized collection of data. In our life, data can be collected from everywhere: cellphone, sensors and digital tools, etc. Data can be use in a building’s whole life cycle, such as design, construction and maintenance phase. In this post, the importance of using database in designing process will be discussed.

In the article “How Big Data and VR in Architecture Will Greatly Improve Design”, it talks about the combined force of data and VR in design will advance the architectural practice. At the beginning, it provides an example of old time and current method of collecting data for designing. Harvard University hired Sasaki Associates to run a master-planning exercise. A question was being asked by Sasaki, “How do student get into campus”. For old method, college kids would be hired to sit out there to count. But for current method, a program was used to track the movement. The current method is much convenience. Through this survey, Sasaki team knew which way student prefer so that they could focus on these paths when designing the whole plan. In addition, the VR is also helpful in designing. Through running the simulation in virtual model using collected data, the designer can have a more accurate idea of what the site or building will be like when constructed. The VR allows designer to see if their design is appropriate or not. Through applying both database and VR for designing, designer will be able to design more effectively and more efficiently. If a designing firm can collect and organize all data from previous project, this will help designer to make better design decision.

Other than the plan designing, database can also be applying to ventilation design of an building by using sensors. In the article, “The world's most sustainable building is also the smartest”, sensors are used to measure every aspect of lighting, CO2 level and humidity. This will help to measure the air quality and wellness condition of building. Through analyzing these data, designer can know how to design more comfortable building.

Sources Cited:

BERNSTEIN, PHIL. “How Big Data and VR in Architecture Will Greatly Improve Design.” Redshift by AUTODESK, 21 Feb. 2017, www.autodesk.com/redshift/big-data-vr-in-architecture/.

PEAKE, ELEANOR. “The World's Most Sustainable Building Is Also the SmartestThe World's Most Sustainable Building Is Also the Smartest.” WIRED, www.wired.co.uk/article/this-is-the-worlds-smartest-building.

Lauren Kujawa Comments:

Lauren,

Your post about the importance of knowledge is interesting. I agree with you that construction firms should collect data from previous project to be able to apply them in future project. This will allow engineers to track projects and search for information they do not understand.

Carlos Hillinger Comments:

Carlos,

You did a great job explaining the object-oriented database and relational database. I have no idea of their difference until I read your post. The post I did is about the use of database of design. I think the database used in design is like object-oriented database that is more specific. I think you can discuss more about the areas where we use object-oriented database.

Mark Odorizzi Comments:

Mark,

You did a good job explaining the relational database theory. This is helpful for me to understand the concept of relational database. The tables clearly show what the relation and non-relation data looks like. This database seems to require the ability to code and program. I think you can also discuss what areas will this database can be applied.

Relational Database Theory - Deutsch - B5

Before diving directly into what "Relational Database Theory" is I think it is first important to fully comprehend how a database is defined, along with how Big Data is defined. 

In general, a database can be defined as any collection or storage of information that is valuable, organized, searchable and applicable. In other words, it allows for management of files and their records which can be searched, grouped, rearranged and cross-referenced to facilitate easy retrieval for its users. Databases can be organized in any number of ways that are most applicable for what is being structured. A new technique that is being used more commonly as of late, is combining separate databases into larger entities which are now defined as "data warehouses". This is done mostly to help assist in pattern recognition which just reinforces how important databases and data sources are. 

Next, there is Big Data. According to Cringely, "Big Data" can be defined as "the accumulation and analysis of information to extract meaning." Even though this definition is quite broad, I like how far it allows us to delve into how much data we use and rely on without even knowing or realizing that we do so. I feel as though Big Data is similar to the "data warehouses" I mentioned earlier. In the past, storage of data and the capability to analyze that data was expensive and not done as often. Ever since individual computers became a normalized thing, data collection and storage has become much easier and cheaper to keep records of. Big Data is important because it aids in predicting events, the safety of groups or individuals, problem solving and connecting seemingly unrelated events that would have never otherwise been noticed. 

BIM is similar to Big Data and data warehouses in the way that it is also its own "environment". What I mean is that we treat it like data warehouses when we combine separate Autodesk programs in order to complete a project and use them as cross references, as our guest speaker last week, Derek, had mentioned he does often. It is also used as Big Data in the way that it keeps and stores all information in an organized and applicable way that allows its files to be easily accessed and managed by all those who require it to do so. 

This takes me to Relational Database theory. As stated by Darwin "Relational database theory is built around the concept of a relation" which is meant to be taken from a mathematical standpoint so that any number of things can be more easily related. What is important to remember when thinking of this definition is that relationships between multiple characteristics or objects are relational and not exactly "equal to" and this can be shown most easily by using a table, or most specifically the tables given by Darwin himself:

This table does not depict a relation

This table does depict a relation

What is of utmost importance to note however, is that although the second picture does demonstrate relational data, it does not matter what order the columns and rows are shown in. This data in these tables shown can then be searched. When a this relational data is searched, it is called a "query". To output specific information, constraints dictated by the inputted "query statement" will be applied and this will produce the desired data. Microsoft makes a program named Access Database which allows you to set up your own relational tables and query it at the end. It can be done using any desired informational fields, whether large or small.
 Although I had never thought too much about databases until this term, this is now the second time I have come across it since we just used Microsoft Access in my AE T580 class to teach ourselves how to relate specific data we came up with ourselves in a simple way. As explained by Darwin the order in which we defined our relationships did not matter when we ran a query. Seeing this fact in action helped me understand relational database theory much better. 

Sources:

https://dvikan.no/ntnu-studentserver/kompendier/an-introduction-to-relational-database-theory.pdf

https://www.evernote.com/pub/aengineer/ae-510#st=p&n=b751f481-0f42-4f45-a51b-a77127a94351&t=ec0a31ef-f3b4-42b8-b58d-6ed4124da841

https://www.britannica.com/technology/database


Comments:

Dung Tran - 
I really like how you approach the main topic of relational databases by first defining databases in general. I did something similar in my post. I also think you did an exceptional job in explaining how the the math side of relational data, or the relational algebra, connects to the overall concept. I did not get the chance to check out Codd's research paper but it seems to be very helpful in understanding this broad and complicated theory.

Chris Thatch - 

I agree that databases are of utmost importance within the construction field, especially within the management aspect of things. I know that a lot more companies are making a bigger effort in going paperless in more recent years which would be very helpful when it comes to contributing to the databases already in existence. While this is more efficient, offices have found themselves actually using more paper. I wonder why this is, do you have any input? Also, could you define what RS Means is in a bit more detail? I have never heard of it but it seems to be quite important.

Jianfeng Xiao - 

Reading your post is very interesting. I like the examples you give that connect ways in which we use data readily available to us now through new technologies that make prior methods of achieving the same tasks obsolete. Data is such a useful tool when it comes to design because it allows for us to take what we know and apply it in smarter ways, hence smarter buildings and environments also! I will have to check out the articles you cited.