What are the best practices for post-occupancy evaluation and feedback in facility design?

1 Define the scope and objectives

Before you start a POE, you need to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and how you will measure it. You should define the scope and objectives of the POE based on the purpose, goals, and criteria of the facility design, as well as the resources and time available. You should also consider the stakeholders and users of the facility, and how you will engage them in the process. A well-defined scope and objectives will help you focus your efforts and avoid unnecessary or irrelevant data collection.

2 Choose the appropriate methods and tools

There are many methods and tools available for conducting a POE, such as surveys, interviews, observations, sensors, audits, benchmarks, and case studies. You should select the ones that best suit your scope and objectives, as well as the characteristics and context of the facility. You should also balance the quantitative and qualitative data, and ensure that the methods and tools are reliable, valid, and ethical. You may need to use a combination of methods and tools to capture the different aspects and dimensions of facility performance and user experience.

3 Collect and analyze the data

Once you have chosen the methods and tools, you need to collect and analyze the data in a systematic and rigorous way. You should follow the protocols and procedures of the methods and tools, and ensure that the data is accurate, complete, and consistent. You should also use appropriate statistical and analytical techniques to process and interpret the data, and identify the patterns, trends, gaps, and issues. You should compare the data with the design criteria and expectations, as well as with other relevant sources and standards.

4 Communicate and apply the findings

The final step of a POE is to communicate and apply the findings to improve the facility and inform future design decisions. You should prepare a comprehensive and concise report that summarizes the results and recommendations of the POE, and highlights the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges of the facility. You should also share the report with the stakeholders and users, and solicit their feedback and suggestions. You should then implement the necessary changes and actions to address the problems and enhance the performance and satisfaction of the facility. You should also document and disseminate the lessons learned and best practices from the POE, and use them as references and inputs for future projects.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?