Pattern language is a concept that describes a structured method of solving recurring problems in a specific context by using standardized solutions, or “patterns.” Each pattern is a tried-and-tested solution to a common issue that can be reused across different situations, forming a “language” of solutions.
All over the world, alternatives to the fossil-addicted way of living are up and running. However, these alternatives are rarely featured or communicated as they are drowned out by predominant paradigm of industrial capitalism.
Suppose you could drag yourself out of poverty by getting together with people around you and forming a coop? Suppose you could buy organic food from a local farmer and bypass supermarkets? Suppose you could be happy living on less, but with inner peace?
If you know of solutions, have dreamed up solutions or are employing them, do consider communicating them via pattern language.
Origin and Definition
The idea of pattern language was originally developed by architect Christopher Alexander and his colleagues in the 1970s. In their book A Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction (1977), they introduced a collection of architectural patterns that can guide the design and construction of spaces—ranging from entire cities to individual rooms. The patterns help address common problems in design and human interaction with the built environment.
A pattern language consists of three key elements:
- Context: Describes a situation in which a problem arises repeatedly.
- Problem: Identifies the recurring issue that needs to be solved in that context.
- Solution: Offers a standardized approach to resolving the problem in that context, using established techniques or design principles.
Key Characteristics
- Modularity: Each pattern can stand alone as a solution to a specific problem, but patterns are often interrelated. Patterns combine to form larger, more complex solutions.
- Scalability: Pattern languages can be used at different scales. For example, in architecture, you can have patterns for building a house, designing a neighborhood, or planning an entire city.
- Context-driven: The effectiveness of a pattern depends on the context in which it is applied. Each pattern includes guidelines about when and where it should be used.
Example from Architecture
One famous example of a pattern from Alexander’s work is the “Light on Two Sides of Every Room.” This pattern suggests that rooms should be designed with windows on two sides to maximize natural light and create a more pleasant living or working space. The context is interior room design, the problem is poor lighting, and the solution is ensuring that rooms have light from multiple directions.
Applications in Other Fields
Although pattern language originated in architecture, it has been adapted to many other disciplines:
- Software Engineering: The most well-known adaptation is in object-oriented software design. In the book Design Patterns: Elements of Reusable Object-Oriented Software (1994), the authors (known as the “Gang of Four”) applied the concept to software development. Patterns like Singleton, Factory, and Observer are reusable solutions for common programming problems.
- Education: In teaching, a pattern language might be used to create effective learning environments. Patterns could help with classroom management, course design, or how students engage with materials.
- Project Management: In management, patterns can be applied to managing teams, organizing workflows, or solving logistical issues.
- Game Design: Game designers often use patterns to address recurring challenges in level design, user experience, and gameplay mechanics.
Benefits
- Efficiency: Patterns save time by providing ready-made solutions.
- Flexibility: They allow for creative combinations and adaptations.
- Scalability: They can be applied to small or large problems.
- Documentation: They create a shared vocabulary for teams or professionals in the same field.
In Summary
Pattern language is a method of creating structured solutions for common problems, first introduced in architecture and then adapted in many other fields like software design, education, and more. By breaking down problems into recurring patterns, it provides a shared toolkit for design and problem-solving across a wide range of domains. The world desperately needs alternatives, and pattern language can be the way they are communicated so others can replicate them.
Stephen Hinton Consulting 