How do you optimize people and goods flow in commercial interiors?

1 Understand the needs and behaviors of users

The first step to optimize people and goods flow is to understand the needs and behaviors of the users of the space. Who are they, what are they doing, where are they going, and how are they feeling? You can use various methods to gather this information, such as surveys, interviews, observations, and data analysis. You can also use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to create personas, scenarios, and journey maps that represent the different types of users and their experiences in the space.

2 Define the zones and functions of the space

The next step is to define the zones and functions of the space, based on the needs and behaviors of the users. You can use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to create floor plans, diagrams, and models that show the layout and dimensions of the space, as well as the location and purpose of each zone and function. For example, you can divide the space into public, semi-public, private, and service zones, and assign functions such as reception, waiting, meeting, working, dining, shopping, storage, and delivery.

3 Design the circulation and wayfinding systems

The third step is to design the circulation and wayfinding systems that guide and facilitate the movement of people and goods in the space. You can use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to create circulation paths, signage, lighting, and furniture that indicate the direction, distance, and destination of the users and the goods. For example, you can design wide and clear corridors, stairs, elevators, and escalators for people, and dedicated routes, docks, carts, and conveyors for goods. You can also design intuitive and consistent signs, symbols, colors, and maps that help the users and the goods find their way in the space.

4 Evaluate the performance and efficiency of the space

The fourth step is to evaluate the performance and efficiency of the space, based on the flow of people and goods. You can use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to simulate and test the flow of people and goods in the space, using data and metrics such as occupancy, density, speed, volume, frequency, and duration. You can also use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to analyze and optimize the flow of people and goods in the space, using methods such as space syntax, queuing theory, network analysis, and optimization algorithms.

5 Implement and monitor the results of the optimization

The final step is to implement and monitor the results of the optimization, based on the feedback and satisfaction of the users and the goods. You can use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to create and communicate the final design documents, specifications, and instructions that detail the optimization of the flow of people and goods in the space. You can also use commercial design software and tools, such as Revit, SketchUp, or AutoCAD, to monitor and measure the impact and outcome of the optimization, using data and metrics such as satisfaction, loyalty, revenue, cost, and waste.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?