Control Theory

Control Theory: A sense of control over our world and place in it is crucial to human well being (Lewis).

As a designer, there are three parts of the Control Theory that must be considered and understood i  order to effectively design a space that can accommodate to multiple users. Behavioral Control, the ability to change the environmental event (Lewis), Cognitive Control, the ability the change the way  in which we conceive and environment (Lewis),  and Decisional Control, the ability to choose a response (Lewis). 

The ability to change the temperature in my house to accommodate to the weather outside.

As a designer, I must consider the Behavioral Control accessible in a space so that users have the ability to change the way they feel about that environment. This is important because it insures thats the users will be comfortable in their surroundings.

Because there are individual TV screens on the back of each seat in this airplane, it give the passengers the ability to distract themselves from being crowded for an extended period of time.

When designing a space that may not be as big as desired, it is important to incorporate the Cognitive Control aspect of Control Theory. This will create a distraction from the small amount of space and make the overall experience more enjoyable.

This floor plan represents Decisional Control because there are multiple exits in the room allowing people to have a clear option and choice to leave the environment.

Decisional Control is the most important aspect of the Control Theory to consider while designing. By having multiple exit strategies in a space, it creates a more relaxed feeling for those who are in it. This is because if something were to happen and someone felt the need to leave the space, it is not confusing for them regarding where they should go. For example, one of the current projects I am working on requires me to show the changes I would make to accommodate to a wounded warrior (Veteran). While interviewing one of the Vets, he stated "I always like to be able to see and have a clear exit strategy." 

I hope to be able to incorporate the Control Theory while designing so that that I am able to create spaces that are enjoyable and comfortable to those who may be using them.