110
The Prototype Design: Scope
Insofar as these new ways are untested by actual field application, the
Prototype Design may be thought of as a "working hypothesis". Simply
stated, the hypothesis is, "If a hospital is designed, constructed,
maintained and altered in accordance with the rules and
recommendations set forth in the Design Manual, then the problems
stated above will all be alleviated to some significant degree."
111.2.2
Long Range Development
On the basis of the evaluation of hospitals utilizing the system, the
hypothesis can be tested and modified. The Prototype Design is subject
to continual review and revision as experience accumulates. Also, as the
original innovations are either rejected or integrated into standard
procedures, new innovations can be introduced into the Prototype Design
for successive projects.
The building system should thus be viewed as a component within a larger
system, namely the VA's total managerial system for the programming,
design, construction, operation and evaluation of hospitals.
The building system is not intended to substitute for any existing
component of the larger system; it is an additional component whose
function is to supplement and contribute to the effectiveness of the others.
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