What is it about?
Storytelling is a familiar and accessible tool that bridge designers can use to communicate the benefits of infrastructure to a wide audience. Storytelling can also ensure planners and politicians genuinely address the needs and concerns of that audience. However, modern trends in social media and design may each undermine traditional storytelling skills unless they are encouraged and valued.
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Why is it important?
For infrastructure to best serve the needs of society, it must be fully understood and widely accepted. Fundamentally this demands excellent design teamed with positive stakeholder communication through the use of language which is accessible, inclusive and builds trust and respect.
Perspectives
As an architect and a bridge designer, I often have to explain my designs to different audiences. On the one hand: to a highly technical audience, frequently with little direct knowledge of the place and the people for whom they are designing. On the other: a lay audience, usually with little technical knowledge to allow them to understand the consequences of what is being proposed. With so little common ground, there is a tendency for each audience to mistrust or fear the other. However, clear communication of design through strong (and enjoyable) storytelling brings people together and improves understanding. I hope you enjoy the article.
Martin Knight
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: BIM and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance, Structural Engineering International, September 2018, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/10168664.2018.1468230.
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