ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study in activity analysis wherein patterns of use are observed and plotted as they interrelate in a building conceptualized as an “activity system”. Taxonomy for activity analysis as well as design principles for accommodating dynamic activity programs follows directly from these considerations. The activity system could also be described in mathematical form, and with the introduction of probability functions, attempts at a predictive model could be made. Architectural programmers and theorists have sought to define a“least common denominator” or basic unit of analysis of activity systems from which to construct a structuralist conception of human activity. The architectural program, however, does constitute the initial set of decisions to which the subsequent users respond. The conception of the interdependence of elements in an activity system suggests that constant adjustments be made by relocating activities and changing linkages.
