Simulated as an enabling technology for cooperative working

The barriers to simulation deployment in design practice are well documented. They include: a steep learning curve, a lack of trained staff, hardware and software is- sues, lack of resources, the development of appropriate procedures for use in practice and communication and co-ordination issues. IBPSA Scotland is assisting its members to address these barriers by providing expert in-house support for the integration of the new simulation technologies into their existing work practices. To date, IBPSA Scotland has focused on identifying barri- ers to tool use in practice and developing procedures to assist practitioner users in addressing these. The Group has now reached a stage whereby, through ongoing industry interaction, the debate is taking a step forward, as practitioners begin to use simulation in earnest. This paper is one of four presented by IBPSA Scotland members at this conference. Each one deals with the breaking down of barriers to tool use in practice. The approach varies to suit individual company needs and aspirations