Considering user participation in light of level and stages of self-selection in architectural design process (ADP)

Abstract

Presenting the new definition of self-selection in Architectural Design Process (ADP) needs to clarify the edges of this new concept versus the others, which exist in design area. Referring to conducting content analysis in previous published studies, the general meaning of self-selection is a situation in which user decide to do something for themselves rather than do something that has chosen for them. On the other hand, different users’ and designers’ vision of self-selection make a connection with End User’s Personalization (EUP) and User Centered Design (UCD). Both self-selection and user participation indicate the user decision-making power. Consequently, for earning a high level of user satisfaction, users should allow to contribute partially or totally, in certain decision-making processes, which have normally considered as the typical responsibility of architects. This paper by gathering a close group dissection and using brainstorming method, has attempted to argue the levels and stages of user participation in order to discover and establish the level and stages of self-selection in ADP.