A comparison of multidisciplinary design, analysis and optimization processes in the building construction and aerospace industries

Advancement in computer-based product modeling and analysis tools now allows diverse disciplines to simulate product performance in the early stages of Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) projects. How-ever, the capability of this technology to permit AEC professionals to quickly create, represent and rigorously analyze design options from the perspective of multiple disciplines has not been fully realized compared to other industries such as Aerospace. This paper compares Multidisciplinary Design, Analysis (MDA) and Optimization (MDO) processes in the AEC and aerospace industries based upon case data gathered on recent projects in each industry. Case study re-sults are then generalized by industry to highlight the respective strengths and limitations of current practice in each industry to support effective MDA and MDO. Finally, the appropriateness of adapting methods and technology devel-oped in the aerospace on AEC projects is discussed.