The real advantage to this structure is that it can be as long as you want. This structure is 20' x 20'. We actually have enough connectors to make a structure that is 20' x 50' and really, there is no limit to how long you can go. The only limit is space. There is no denying it.
Geodesic domes make great shade structures.
They can take lots of wind, they have lots of room and no annoying support poles. The only problem is that they are incredibly labor intensive. It will take you several days to make all of the parts and assemble them beforehand. After that, it will take 4 people over an hour to assemble the structure. Finding a shade cloth to fit is very hard if you are not willing to sew your own.