The Impact of Using Parametric Modeling on Creative Outcomes in Design Studio

Abstract

The study investigates the impact of using parametric modeling on creative outcomes. Hypothesizing that Parametric modeling can enhance creativity rather than inhibit creation and cause fixation. In a historical review, parametric modeling evolution and roots from ancient cultures to contemporaneity is highlighted and classified into analogue and digital parametric modeling paradigms. The types of digital parametric modeling engines are defined and different examples of parametric modeling applications are presented. The essence of creativity is expounded, creativity assessments methods are compared and evaluation tools and frameworks are explained. A framework for assessing creative product and production is composed, and a new measure "Product and Productivity Creative Criterions" (PPCC) is developed. The study verified the proposed measure in an empirical case study to assess creativity behavior when using two different modeling engines, one is direct modeling and the other is parametric. A statistical comparison between the outcomes resulted from the case study is analyzed to measure and assess the impact of using parametric modeling engines on creative outcomes. Analyzing the results submitted in the exercise proofs the hypothesis of the study, proofs that using parametric modeling aid participants to broaden their space of possible design solutions, expand their cognition and enhance their creativity in both product and productivity, with a paradigm shift and positive significant impact in terms of (Fluency) and (Flexibility), positive impact in terms of (Originality), slight negative impact in terms of (Elaborations) or detailing, slight positive impact in terms of (Resolution) or functionality, as well as a positive impact in the (Taxonomy) of creative design classification concerning: (Imitation, Variation, Combination, Transformation and Original Creation).