Software, hardware & orgware

Placemaking is not a linear process and requires according to Hans Karssenberg (2024) a multidisciplinary perspective and approach. To design good places, the approach to placemaking must look at both the use of the place and the activities that (may) take place there, the so-called 'software'; the physical design at the human scale, the so-called hardware and what strategies, partnerships and instruments are needed to maintain this in a sustainable, long-term way, the so-called orgware.

Software, hardware & orgware ('triangle of use') - Karssenberg et. al (2016)

In order to create meaningful places, one needs to consider these three approaches that influence each other; if you make changes in one sphere, changes in the others will follow.

Hardware is the physical appearance of buildings, streets and the city. The

design and building rules that can make a difference in creating a more

people-centred city.

Orgware is the way we organize a good place. How can stakeholders work together. How can we give people influence to improve their surroundings. How can we organize this is in a sustainable and viable way. It can be adapted on different scales by creating teams and coalitions. Various time-frames such as quick wins and long-term strategies have to be taken into account.

Software is the least tangible part, nevertheless, equally important. It regards the user's experience and their perceivance of the built environment. Aspects such as wayfinding in the area and the programming are crucial to consider, as is the order of functions in a place. It is also essential to incorporate a mixture of uses within the area and in public

spaces, on both smaller and larger scale (Karssenberg, et. al, 2016).

Learn more about Software, hardware & orgware (p. 312-324).