Contextual engineering assessment using an influence-identification tool
Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology
ISSN: 1726-0531
Article publication date: 15 November 2018
Issue publication date: 27 November 2018
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to introduce a new thought process and associated predictive tool to assist designers of infrastructure for unfamiliar rural societies in understanding the specific non-engineering influences that can lead to greater effectiveness of engineered infrastructure.
Design/methodology/approach
Using sociological principles, a simple checklist tool has been designed to assess specific societal conditions that may influence intervention outcomes. The tool, when weighted by regional predispositions, allows the designer to incorporate five non-engineering influences into technical design of engineered infrastructure.
Findings
Early deployment of the tool indicates that the predictive process helps to adapt technical designs to societal contexts. It also enhances consultant understanding of the client’s values and needs to achieve a collaborative technical solution.
Research limitations/implications
Long-term outcomes have not been assessed, so additional time is needed to confirm the value of context in design performance. Further evaluations will refine the technical guideline process as well.
Practical implications
Merging sociological understanding with technical design allows engineers to assimilate client values and indigenous beliefs into an infrastructure, preventing rejection due to incompatibility with local context.
Originality/value
The concept of contextual engineering, which melds technical approach with societal influences, is the original contribution of the author, as is the predictive tool.
Keywords
Citation
Witmer, A.-P. (2018), "Contextual engineering assessment using an influence-identification tool", Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology, Vol. 16 No. 6, pp. 889-909. https://doi.org/10.1108/JEDT-05-2018-0091
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2018, Emerald Publishing Limited