Modeling participatory design dynamics: a proposed tool to measure participation depth

This article proposes a methodological framework for evaluating user participation in architectural design processes. By introducing a “participation depth measurement tool,” for quantifying and analysing collaborative and participatory dynamics through dimensions such as redundancy, the trajectory of proposals, number of involved actors, user involvement, and argumentative construction. Applied to the “Grand’Goule” social housing renovation project, the findings reveal that proposals characterized by high participation levels tend to be incorporated into the project, often without significant cost increases. This underscores the relevance of user contributions in achieving pragmatic solutions. This approach advances participatory analysis models and offers perspectives for governing participatory architectural and urban projects.