Notes on an Archaeology of Design Data Literacy

Abstract

In recent years, “data” has become one of the most important aspects of architectural design. With the advent of new technologies, architects are now able to collect and analyse data about everything from building materials to weather patterns. This data can be used to create more efficient and sustainable buildings. In some cases, data can even be used to create entire new neighbourhoods or cityscapes.’ The sentences sound like a quote, one that could have come from an interview about the history of digital culture or the interconnections between architecture and technology. But as authentic as this statement sounds, it was never said. Anyone who thinks they hear the voice of an architect, computer scientist or historian is mistaken. Strictly speaking, the words do not come from a human being, but from the language software Generative Pre-Trained Transformer, GPT-3 for short. The program is the third generation of artificial intelligence, considered one of the most impressive products our digital culture has produced to date. On a timeline of disruptive technologies, it currently occupies the most current position. GPT-3 is a text generator that can write poems and dramas, provide answers to complex questions on topics such as love or trust, discuss the weather or international climate policy with us—and that has also written the short statement on the subject of ‘data and architectural design’ mentioned above. The New York Times calls the program ‘amazing, spooky, humbling and more than a little terrifying‘. [...]