What is used to evaluate if a built design meets the needs of its users?

Post occupancy evaluation is a systematic process used to assess whether a built environment achieves the intended outcomes for its users. This evaluation typically occurs after the completion of a construction project and often involves gathering feedback from occupants regarding their experiences in the space. The goal is to determine if the design meets user needs, functionality, comfort, and overall satisfaction with the space.

This approach gathers empirical data on how the space is used, examining aspects such as air quality, noise levels, lighting, and social interactions. The collected information helps identify any shortcomings and areas for improvement, contributing to better design practices in future projects. Post occupancy evaluation is crucial for architects, landscape architects, and designers as it provides insights into the effectiveness of their designs from the perspective of the end-users.

Other options may play roles in the design process but do not directly serve the purpose of evaluating user satisfaction after a project is completed. Adjacencies relate to spatial arrangements and can influence usability but do not assess user experience. Integrated pest management focuses on controlling pests and does not evaluate the user experience of the built environment. Microclimate assessment pertains to environmental conditions around a site, such as temperature or wind patterns, and, while important for design, does not directly evaluate user needs post-occupancy.