Post-occupancy evaluation (POE)

Abstract

In the 1960s, problems in building efficiency, especially from the building user perspective were observed. That led to the emergence of post-occupancy evaluation (POE) as a tool and system which supports the identification and evaluation of critical aspects in building performance. Zimring and Reizenstein described POE as the “examination of the effectiveness for human users of occupied designed environments”.

Nowadays, POE is applied in the building industry, primarily in the early or late stages of project management, with a focus on energy performance, indoor environment quality, occupants’ satisfaction, and productivity. Applying POE in the early stages of a construction project helps to reflect on mistakes identified in similar previous projects, optimize the new building according to the most recent standards, and to extend its life cycle. On the other hand, if using POE in the late stages of project management it mainly serves as a feedback provider on the performance of a building after construction and occupation.

Depending on the level of detail for each evaluation, three analysis options can be used: indicative, investigative, and diagnostic. Thus, the POE can be a simple walk-through evaluation (indicative), a more detailed and formal data collection (investigative), or a large-scale project review (diagnostic) (Ministry of education, 2016).

The tool (big idea)

describe the tool, concept, or theory and explain its purpose. The section should reflect the current state of the art on the topic

• OVERACHRCHING BENEFIT: support the goal of continuous improvement
• other benefits:
  • ....

Short history recap

• POE was introduced in the 1960s
• Reason: significant problems experienced in building performance with particular emphasis on the building occupant perspective
• First noted in institutional care facilities (hospitals, nursing homes) and correctional facilities

POE today

• Many designers and other key participants in the design process have never heard of or been involved in a POE
• POEs are still far from being an ingrained part of the facility delivery process
• Barriers to implementing:
  • ....

Level of POE

1. Indicative
2. Investigative
3. Diagnostic

Application

provide guidance on how to use the tool, concept or theory and when it is applicable

• building environment

Early stages in the project management

• improve new buildings by learning from previous mistakes

Final stages of the project management

• controlling instrument

Limitations

critically reflect on the tool/concept/theory. When possible, substantiate your claims with literature

Annotated bibliography

Provide key references (3-10), where a reader can find additional information on the subject.

1. Zimring, C. M., & Reizenstein, J. E. (1980). Post-Occupancy Evaluation. Environment and Behavior, 12(4), 429–450. https://doi.org/10.1177/0013916580124002
2. Preiser, W. F. E. (1995). Post-occupancy evaluation: how to make buildings work better. Facilities, 13(11), 19–28. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632779510097787
3. Zimmerman, A., & Martin, M. (2001). Post-occupancy evaluation: Benefits and barriers. Building Research and Information, 29(2), 168–174. https://doi.org/10.1080/09613210010016857

Notes

Life Cycle (of buildings) Learnings for new projects

General Information

Inke Lindberg, s223191