Implementing noise prediction standards in software - challenges and experiences

摘要

Although most noise prediction standards still originate from the 80's and are based on empirical findings that are valid for a limited number of situations, there is a growing demand and user expectation for state of the art functionality in the software. Complex 3D models, use of spatial data, data management, web enabled use, fast calculations, user friendliness, new Operating Systems, etc. As a result more demands are placed on the Environmental Noise Calculation Software Industry. At the start of the 80's the software could be written by a single acoustician with some software knowledge. Nowadays the development and support of such specialized software requires a team of specialists consisting of Acousticians, GIS specialists, Mathematicians, Help writers, Translators and Software developers with various skills. One of the challenges of the software development team is unclear documentation of a prediction standard and the absence of official software certification procedures. The software development team will have to interpret the calculation standard themselves and make choices for implementation. This paper gives insight in the challenges and experiences as well as the process, disciplines and the skills needed for implementation of noise prediction standards into software.