Post Occupancy Evaluation in Design
Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) is one methodology to answer design questions and let designers know if their designs successfully serve their purposes and goals. POEs are used to document user satisfaction with the interior environment or building. It is also a means to collect data, reflect on the design, and seek ideas and findings to inform future design solutions.
It is crucial for interior design that space serves occupants’ needs, supports their health and well-being, and provides them a satisfying experience. This research reviewed best practices about POEs from peer-review articles, white paper publications, online tools including CBE Occupant Survey Toolkit, Roast Survey, and Sustainable Post Occupancy Evaluation Survey developed at the University of Minnesota. In addition, two interviews were conducted to document how two major leading architecture firms (LHB and Perkins & Will) use POEs in their work to promote health and well-being in the built environment.