When is the 'post-occupancy evaluation' typically conducted?

The 'post-occupancy evaluation' is an important part of the commissioning process, typically occurring after the building is occupied. This phase involves assessing how well the building meets the users' needs and verifying that systems are functioning as intended. During this evaluation, feedback is collected from the occupants regarding their experience and the performance of the building, which can include aspects such as comfort, energy use, and overall functionality.

Conducting this evaluation after occupancy allows for a thorough examination of the building's operations in its intended use and environment. It differs significantly from evaluations conducted during earlier phases of a project, such as the design phase or construction phase, where the focus is generally on planning or implementing systems rather than assessing their real-world performance.