Computer Applications – Design and Digital Communication

Within architecture, digital tools — from machine learning to fabrication technologies,

from artificial intelligence to Big Data — are becoming more and more ubiquitous and
pervasive, and quickly. Increased interest in the impact these technologies are having,
and will have, in our daily lives has rapidly expanded the use of these tools in
architecture schools, small, independent firms and international, corporate practices.
From augmented reality for construction to 3D printing architectural models to using
artificial intelligence within the design process, it is increasingly rare that an architectural
project does not use some kind of digital tool either for design or fabrication.

Digital design is a type of visual communication that presents information or a product

or service through a digital interface.

Digital designers make decisions on the visual direction of the product, and what they
deliver to the client is typically an offline mockup (whether through Photoshop or a
prototyping tool like Figma). Developers then use coding language to turn this mockup
into a working digital design.

The responsibility of a designer is to develop the relationship between the viewer and
visuals. Before they know what the visuals will look like, the designer will consider the
message they want to communicate and how to strategically engage the viewer. They
will consider what will capture a viewer’s attention first and the psychology behind how
design elements affect someone’s mood. They create designs that communicate a
message faster than words can, but make sure that the messaging is also clear and
compelling.

The design and creation of visual communications requires the selection and application
of methods, media, materials, design elements, design principles and final presentation
formats. Collectively these are the resources of visual language.

Digital architecture allows complex calculations that delimit architects and allow a
diverse range of complex forms to be created.

It also helps in reducing the project costs by using technology such as virtual reality or
3D printing can help clients identify areas they'd like to change before construction
starts.

Technology advancements such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) helps

everybody involved in a project stay on the same page at every step. Engineers,
designers, and architects can use a BIM program to ensure their specific plans are in
alignment before any cutting or welding takes place.
 Costing and Estimation – Hierarchy of building construction

1. Site Preparation or Leveling work.

2. Excavation or Earth work.
3. Foundation.
4. Plinth Beam, PCC and RCC.
5. Superstructure – Columns, Beam, Staircase and Slab.
6. Brick or Block Masonry Work.
7. The Lintel Over Doors
8. Lintel and Chajja over Windows.
9. Plastering and Waterproofing.
10. Electrical and Plumbing.
11. Flooring tiles.
12. Doors and Windows work and steel fabrication work.
13. Exterior Finishing
14. Terrace and Roof Finishing.
15. Internal finishing
16. Woodwork and fixture settings
17. Waterproofing
18. Painting work
19. Boundary wall and gates
20. Hardscaping and landscaping