Stimulating simulation. Computer tools in building services.

The application of computer tools in construction is set for a revolution as integrated software packages come close to fruition. But there are barriers to the increased use of electronic design tools, notably worries over validation, the skills needed both in the design studio and on site and the quality assurance issues of correctly defining product elements and the design criteria. Over the next three articles, we examine the potential for using integrated computer design tools. To begin, Paul Ruyssevelt and David Batholomew discuss the use of computer models with more traditional design methods.