ABSTRACT
This chapter provides a context for interpreting the new "behavioral architecture." It discusses some of the reasons why architects have suddenly found it necessary to familiarize themselves with sociological and psychological knowledge, emphasizing in the role played by the emergence of new building types that require a much more thorough and systematic inquiry into user needs than was customary. The chapter deals with the different aspects of user behavior—institutional and personal goals, the organization as a means for achieving goals, and space as a facility for allowing the means to operate—that are relevant to building design. It discusses the competence of sociologists to provide data and advice relating to these aspects. The chapter describes the design process and some of the issues that arise when the architect asks the sociologist to help him convert information about the user into a three-dimensional design solution.
