International Digital Laboratory

Edward Cullinan Architects used a Design Quality Indicator (DQI) assessment to develop a fit-for-purpose building that met requirements of users from all parts of the organisation.

The new International Digital Laboratory is the second building constructed for Warwick Manufacturing Group at the University of Warwick.  It was designed to develop digital technologies for learning and innovation in digital manufacturing through virtual product testing, research and education programmes.

Edward Cullinan Architects used a Design Quality Indicator (DQI) assessment to develop a brief which met the needs of users and ensured that the building could easily adapt in an industry where rapid development and change is inevitable.

How the Design Quality Indicator (DQI) assessment helped

• ensured that user requirements were integrated from the briefing stage
• allowed stakeholders to evaluate a building already onsite
• highlighted positive and negative aspects of the original building
• developed understanding between users about their different perspectives and needs
• started a direct conversation between users and the architect about specific uses
• helped the estates department at the University of Warwick learn lessons for future projects
• clarified design priorities
• clarified the brief for the building and why it was required
• managed stakeholder engagement in a structured and recorded way
• allowed all stakeholders to express their opinions equally.