Computing In Archtectural Design Response

Computers have played large roles in design in the past and the present from the early ziggurats of Mesopotamia to the modern day buildings of today. Computers have become a driving force that has allowed the industry to change and grow in positive directions.
During the Renaissance the Vitruvian ideal was becoming a strong force in the architectural world. The proportions of humans were being used in temples of the time. Using these proportions allowed for a greater connection between God and the common man. Designers were using compasses and straightedges to gain the correct dimensions needed. The use of these tools allowed for the development of algorithms. Once these were developed designers had the ability to create the perfect square. Algorithms lead to the first calculations that were used as the starting point of computers. The designers first did these calculations as the building was created. As time and technology progressed the idea of taking these calculations and allowing a machine to do them is what lead to the creation and use of computers.
The first computer was created in 1959 by IBM and used by the U.S. Air Force. It was so large that it took up thousand square feet. Instead of having a modern day keyboard this first computer had what was called a sketchpad. This pad was used to enter data into the system just like the keyboards of today do. This pad was able to straighten lines and square drawings. Thus creating a perfect line without the use of the straightedge for the first time. It was not until 1964 that computers entered into the world of architectural design. As time progressed into the 1970s programs were being written to help designers create perfectly straight buildings with an ease of use. These programs were referred to as CAD programs. CAD stands for computer-aided design.
As technology advanced the ability to create better CAD systems emerged. New programs allowed for the designing process to be more perfect and easy for the designers to create. The more time and technology advance the better the programs become. Computers themselves have become faster, smaller, and better when operating. This has allowed for an ease of usage. It does seem that technology may have gone as far as it is able to with computers. But as time and technology move forward the better the CAD programs could become. Architects and designers will keep updating allowing the systems of design to become more and more easily used.