The Problems with the Application of Contemporary Software for the Analysis of Shadowing of Architectural Objects

The article deals with the issue of the application of modern shading analysis methods using computer software. Obtaining the optimal exposure of buildings in the urban context, issues related to insolation of rooms and meeting other requirements regarding access to natural light are an extremely important element of design work. Despite the high rank of the above issues, in practice designers rarely have the opportunity to verify their theoretical analyses with the results obtained in situ during and after the construction of the facility. The need for this type of verification can be imagined in the case of claims by users. However, it is not easy to implement, because in reality the measurement would have to take place on specific days of the year and under favourable weather conditions. This article summarises the results of sample tests, generated with the most commonly used programmes and field tests in nature using simple observational research methods. The obtained data revealed significant measurement discrepancies. The comparative analysis of the obtained results clearly indicates the need for a more critical look at the effects of using modern tools in the work of architects. This article is the result of the initial stage of the author’s research, ultimately aimed at the use of a wider spectrum of methods on a larger scale, on the examples of real architectural objects.