In this chapter, the architecture and prototype are validated. Using the requirements set earlier,
the aim is to determine whether the architecture is valid for the given goal (reduce integration
difficulties without requiring much extra training for non-technical users).
6.1 Validation
The design science methodology describes the need for constant validation and evaluation while
doing design science research (Wieringa 2014). Therefore, the prototype and architecture were
constantly re-validated and evaluated during development.
Validation was done two-fold: firstly, a use case was established based on some of the data
requirements of a user in the purchasing department. This use case serves as a scenario in which BIM
integration would be highly beneficial for the overall workflow. For every step of this use case, it was
determined if said action was possible with the current implementation of the architecture and
prototype. This way it is determined whether the prototype actually implements the architecture
correctly.
Secondly, regularly scheduled meetings were held with experts of both the Construction Company
and CAPE in order to discuss progress and usability of the prototype. This validation step is used to
determine whether the architecture and prototype fulfil the intended goal of reducing integration
challenges while keeping training costs low for non-technical users.
6.1.1 Validation and evaluation meetings
During development, a combination of both informal regular contact and formally scheduled sprint
meetings were used to validate the prototype and architecture. Informal contact was mostly used for
day to day questions regarding development or small design questions, while the scheduled sprint
meetings were used to validate work done thus far and to evaluate the design and development
process.
The meetings always had roughly the same structure:
1. Introduction
2. Architecture review
3. Demonstration of the prototype
4. Explanation of design choices
5. Validation questions regarding the prototype and architecture
6. Wrap up and feedback for next sprint
Table 4 provides an overview of all the experts consulted throughout this research process, their
roles and the manner of contact.
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