MIDA was created for many reasons, all of which are purely practical. As the chapters unfold I have tried to demonstrate the purpose and value of every document, by relating practical examples, rather, true events that occurred. The MIDA System is designed to cover all eventualities to protect the Designer and the Client, but as with all systems, it will not work unless it is used fully, by all recipients and originators. Any weak link in a chain may cause a failure. A project is a chain of events; and we, as Designers must operate that chain, if it breaks, someone loses. If the system is used by the Designer, at least he will not lose.
There are fundamental reasons behind the style and design of the system and model:
- Designers picture things in their minds, a list of forms and documents would put most Designers to sleep.
- Designers understand processes, but can relate to them more easily, if they can visual-ize these processes as a methodology. Therefore, a graphic model crystallizes the logical process.
- When using methodology, it is normal to list the criteria in levels of importance or indeed relevance. MIDA, using primary, secondary and tertiary platforms automatically places the information required or provided in the correct place.
- Designers understand colour and the relationship between: Primary colours - Relating to primary platforms, Secondary colours - Relating to secondary platforms and Tertiary colours - Relating to tertiary platforms
The concept of the model, as a picture or diagram of the project, with the colours representing the importance of the milestones or stages, is simple and logical to a Designer.
The system becomes a living thing on a project-by-project basis; it is an instant overall view of the project to date, in a graphic living form, not simply a list of documents.
With the advancement in technology and computer systems, as the MIDA System develops into a computer package, it is not inconceivable to imagine 3D images emerging from the plat-forms almost as a video game, appealing more and more to the new generation of computer (expert) designers.
The system described in this handbook is, I believe, of great value to practicing interior designers and students of interior design. But the electronic version of MIDA will be the "REAL GAME"
It is important to note the following.
The book utilizes a hospitality format for all examples of documentation, simply because "Hospitality" projects can involve a large number of active participants.
This does not pre-suppose other specialties would not have an equally large number of participants.
However, it is understood and accepted that Designers may well be involved or specialize in
- Residential
- Corporate Offices
- Financial Institutions
- Health care
- Retail, Stand alone or Retail Malls
- Entertainment, Movie theaters, theatres, Concert Halls etc.
- Educational establishments,
- Places of worship
Therefore, the computer application will be available in a format for all specialties of Interior Design, in due course.
