Footbridge design. Can a methodological approach be defined to guarantee a good solution?

Every design process is intended to devise a solution (S) to a problem (P). Footbridge design is no exception. The way from problem planning to a good solution has not much to do with the artistic-romantic idea of the immediate answer (eureka) that solves everything. The design process of a pedestrian bridge is creative, but more cognitive (deliberate or spontaneous) than emotional. It is (or should be) a complex approach that demands from the team in charge creativity, effort, technical knowledge in numerous fields, experience, honesty and sensibility. A good solution will also require, apart from an indispensable skilful team (owner and designers), an allocation of economic and time resources that fit the characteristics of the problem. It can be set a sequence of steps for the designer to stop on the journey from a problem (P) to its solution (S). Many of the steps are common to any design process (i.e., product, graphic, fashion) and although they cannot guarantee that (S) will be the best solution, following the sequence with rigour, interest and creativity should at least provide a good solution. Suitable development of the design process should avoid inappropriate solutions seen with regrettable frequency. With a methodological approach to footbridge design, a solution that is satisfactory for every project requirement, or ideally the optimum solution, is not a pipe dream if paired with a good and coordinated team and enough money and time.

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