Post-occupancy
Post-occupancy refers to the process of evaluating buildings after people have moved in and started using them. It's like a detailed feedback survey that helps architects and designers understand how well their building designs work in real life. Think of it as a "customer satisfaction check" for buildings - architects study how people actually use the spaces they created, if the building meets their needs, and what could be improved in future designs. This evaluation usually happens 6-12 months after people start using the building, giving enough time for occupants to experience the space in all seasons and situations.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted Post-occupancy evaluations for 5 major office buildings to improve future designs
Led Post-occupancy evaluation studies resulting in 30% improvement in user satisfaction
Implemented changes based on POE (Post-occupancy evaluation) findings to enhance building performance
Typical job title: "Post-occupancy Evaluators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Post-occupancy Evaluators
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a post-occupancy evaluation that reveals major design flaws?
Expected Answer: A strong answer should discuss diplomatic communication with stakeholders, prioritizing issues based on impact, developing practical solutions, and creating implementation strategies while maintaining professional relationships.
Q: How do you ensure post-occupancy findings influence future design projects?
Expected Answer: Should explain methods for documenting and sharing findings, incorporating lessons learned into design guidelines, and implementing feedback loops in the design process.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What methods do you use to gather post-occupancy data?
Expected Answer: Should mention surveys, interviews, observation studies, energy usage analysis, and occupant comfort assessments, with examples of when to use each method.
Q: How do you measure the success of a post-occupancy evaluation?
Expected Answer: Should discuss comparing results against original design goals, occupant satisfaction metrics, and the practical implementation of recommendations.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a post-occupancy evaluation?
Expected Answer: Should explain that it helps understand how well buildings work for their users, identifies areas for improvement, and provides lessons for future designs.
Q: What are the basic components of a post-occupancy evaluation?
Expected Answer: Should mention occupant surveys, building performance measurements, and observation of how spaces are used.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic survey and interview techniques
- Data collection and organization
- Report writing
- Understanding of building basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Advanced evaluation methods
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Project management
- Stakeholder communication
Senior (5+ years)
- Strategic recommendations development
- Complex project leadership
- Industry best practices knowledge
- Consultation and advisory services
Red Flags to Watch For
- No understanding of basic building systems and occupant needs
- Lack of experience with evaluation methodologies
- Poor communication or report writing skills
- No knowledge of building codes and standards
Related Terms
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