This chapter will describe design-driven dialogues as an approach that outlines a possible way of implementing co-design methodology for healthcare architecture planning.

Healthcare can be viewed as a highly complex system. The design of its architecture, accordingly, is a highly complex (design) problem. Complex (design) problems have no definite correct solutions but rather “best possible” solutions. Coping with them can be described as a process rather than a sequential trip with a start and a goal. To handle complex problems, one must combine several approaches and strategies. Often, many players with different perspectives are involved so that no one has the full power to choose the solution himself or herself. The problem therefore needs to be extended to a larger group instead of being narrowed down to an expert group.

Design-driven dialogues build on interactive and participatory dialogue processes involving multi-disciplinary teams of professionals. The basic concept is to use design methodology and physical model-making to be able to handle complex commissions by an iterative work with identification of needs and development of solutions. While working together as a cross-disciplinary group the participants use design artefacts to explore spatial relationships and new design concepts simultaneously.