Evolution of building performance evaluation techniques : synthesizing current knowledge towards a future research agenda

Abstract

Buildings provide infrastructure and logistical support for core business functions and present comfortable and stable internal environment to the occupants. Buildings, however, are not static over time; they change, evolve and often adapt in response both to external and internal factors. This dynamic nature has profound impact on building performance. Building performance plays a major role in articulating the expectations of building designers, owners, occupants and operators. Traditionally, cost centered performance evaluation criteria have been used by the building professionals in understanding how well a building is satisfying its users or functional requirements. The improved match between expectations and fulfillment is considered as an important target for the building in providing better value for the customer. However, advancements in expectations, standards and requirements of building occupiers and owners for cost effective and value added facilities have led the global industries towards the emergence of the concept of Building Performance Evaluation (BPE). This paper critically reviews the literature on the evolution of BPE frameworks and techniques since 1960s and presents current developments in systematic building performance evaluation. The paper concludes by highlighting the dearth of multidimensional framework and a holistic approach for BPE and provides recommendations for future research aimed at developing a more integrated BPE research agenda. This paper will be valuable to scholars working in BPE, who wish to understand how the field has been developed as well as those who are interested in avenues for future research.