March 4, 1998

Submitted to:
Collaborative Design, GSD 7400
Harvard University
Graduate School of Design

Jeffery Huang, Joyce Noe, Larry Barrow, Sam Hui,

The attached drawings are my submission for the Remote Collaborative Design Fast Track Mini Charette. I am interested in the investigation of online design collaboration. This charette is my first adventure into this interesting area. I thank the organizing members of this event for taking the time and energy in making my first step exciting and educational.

Statement of Intent
The main goals of the design solution proposed are to provide a dedicated, secure and sound attenuating cabinet for the audiovisual equipment called for in the program. Multimedia presentations and communications are rapidly changing fields and this solution must be adaptable for new technology. The solution proposed already has provision for a built in CPU.

As of the date of this project projected slide film maintains a level of quality and clarity that exceeds digital media. Digital media is far more versatile and interactive than slide film. Therefore, at this time both presentation methods should be provided.

Beyond the given program – The solution not presented.
A multimedia presentation / discussion room such as Room 111 might benefit greatly by the elimination of front screen projection equipment. Rear screen projection equipment has several advantages over the front screen set up that is currently in use in the room. In a rear screen set-up, ambient light levels in the viewing room can be higher, creating a more comfortable environment for discussion and note taking.

In the case of Room 111, rear screen projection would have a major downside-the elimination of valuable floor space. In this case floor space would have to be sacrificed in either Room 111 or the adjacent classroom. With classroom space already at a premium at Gund Hall this disadvantage would override the benefits gained in a rear screen scenario. It is important; however, to keep the idea of rear screen projection in mind for future long term planning and design.

Once again, thank you for your time and effort.