structureusing

Structureusing is a term used in design discussions to describe approaches that derive or organize a system's structure from its intended usage or functional requirements. The idea treats how a system will be used as the primary driver of its architecture, components, and interfaces, rather than starting from a fixed set of parts or abstractions.

The term is a portmanteau of structure and using and functions as a neologism in some design literatures. There is no single standardized definition, and interpretations vary by field.

In software engineering contexts, structureusing may involve modeling data structures and module boundaries from usage scenarios, with an emphasis on decoupling, flexibility, and evolvability. In architecture, it can refer to arranging structural systems to support typical workflows and human activities, sometimes prioritizing adaptability over conventional rigidity.

Core principles often include deriving structure from usage requirements, promoting modularity, applying constraints to guide design decisions, and iterating the structure as usage evolves. Practitioners may use scenario analysis, interface contracts, and prototyping to surface and test structural choices.

Critics note that overemphasis on usage can lead to overfitting or neglect performance and scalability concerns, and the lack of a formal standard limits comparability across projects. At present, structureusing is discussed primarily in speculative or exploratory contexts rather than as an established methodology.

See also: modular design, usage-driven design, constraint-based design, and design by requirements.