Some insights and recommendations about Open Design

Abstract

In this study, we defined a set of parameters to evaluate openness, social inclusiveness, economic viability and environmental responsibility in Open Design (OD) Projects. We compared the parameters of eight OD cases of different nature and scale related to the built environment. We identified current limitations to the application of OD in developing countries and developed a set of recommendations to improve openness and guarantee sustainable practices. Results show that social inclusiveness is limited to the existence of digital fabrication tools and collaboration platforms, there is a lack of information concerning environmental aspects and there are positive perspectives for local businesses and job creation.