Strategic Design
In this blog, I will show why strategic design is extremely valuable and how it can be utilized in architecture. I will use the discovery of an ancient ‘city gate’ of Megiddo and present valuable incites for contemporary solutions. In addition, through this non-fiction account, of this archeological dig that occurred in Israel in 1925. I will show how this uncovered ruin actually served as a prototype of its day and created multifaceted solutions; which can also be applied today in ways that only strategic design can achieve.
The Story of the Megiddo Gates:
The discovery of this ancient city gate of ‘Megiddo’ tells an interesting story about how strategic design was used to create one of the more unique and successful city gates in all the world., The discovery revealed a design of a long lost city gate system that was ingenuous in its solution of providing an enclosed passageway and internal chambers. It appears the chambers served to provide protection against any invaders who may have entered the city gate. .
The’Megiddo Gate’ (as depicted above) shows the floor plan and the manor of passage that was taken into the city. The discovery of this gate, led to a deeper analysis of this unusual design for this gate. In, fact, it was discovered, that the design included much more than a single point of protection. It contained a series of redundancies for added protection. In addition, it was later understood, that the gate also served as a civic function. Much like a judicial court, This was a civic function, where various civil madders could be addressed through the dual functionality of its design. This design turned out to be so successful in achieving its objectives, that there were other versions built and implemented throughout this region. It became obvious through other archeological digs that other versions of this design were applied from the Megiddo prototype,
The archeological dig also revealed that the structure was built as a double wall system, and it was ingeniously designed to include an internal passage way that could secretly operate to prevent unlawful access and potential destruction of its city.. As such, it becomes clear, the city gate of Megiddo housed a diverse level of functionality beyond protection. The design fundamentally transformed the operation of the city entrance gate of its day. Megiddo itself had become a symbol of strength and served as a model of governance.
With all of this in mind, The Megiddo gate system reveals a design thinking mindset that incorporated a series of solutions and deep understanding of the challenges of its day. However, through strategic design. The Megiddo city gate system also provided an innovative design approach, that made it extraordinary example of how strategic design can be utilized to solve complex problems, while also advancing cultural advancements that supported the city.
The Essence of Strategic Design:
This story of the Megiddo city gate provides incite into the nature of strategic design. Specifically through improved functionality, added civiic functional benefits and operational control. The design solution also represents advancements over the status quo.of its day. Interestingly, the gate advancements did not require new material, or technology, but demonstrated a quality in craftsmanship, engineering and emphasis on innovation through design— specifically ‘strategic design’. However, perhaps most important, was the level of thinking and wisdom that was incorporated very early in the design process. Long before construction began, its clear the s=design was set with a clear set of objectives and outcomes.
Challenges inspire Good Design:
From a modern perspective, the design of the Megiddo city gate, depicts a fascinating account of how strategic design can be utilized in a powerful way. i.,e., solving major challenge’s of its day, even madders of life and death consequences..This astonishing example proves that strategic design does in fact make all the difference between order and chaos. Advancing solutions that resolve problems can add great value to any project. Even more, it will benefit human beings. Its clear the above noted example serves as a prototype. Megiddo also became much more than a fancy facade, it became a unique and thoughtful way of using challenges as a spring board to uncovering innovative solutions.
Modern Day Applications:
To achieve any good work, ultimately requires a vision, analysis, and proper planning. In a building endeavor such as this city gate example. Its clear that strategic design is vital and will benefit the project in multifaceted ways.. Much can be accomplished with this design approach and way of thinking. Simply put, strategic design will make substantial contributions in establishing order over chaos.
Summary and Application:
- Megiddo’s city gate provides a real-life example of the importance of strategic design.
- Improving function, creating order, enhancing operations — creating substantial value.
- A holistic approach — harmonizes the entire project.
- Design thinking mindset that is used to create a prototype.
- Solving problems through strategic design, enhances functionality and value.
- Advancing multifaceted solutions and benefits that go beyond problem resolution.
- Strategic Design represents an art and a science that may not be easy, but is extremely valuable.
- Multi-faceted methodology that treats each project individually.
- Advances secure and safe environments — a quality of life issue.
- Provides an excellent feasibility analysis tool — long before construction begins.
- An design process that minimizes risk, and established long-term value.
- The quality of our life and what is produced; depends on a higher level of thinking, not a factory line.
