Assessing building performance in use 5: conclusions and implications

The implications of the Probe post-occupancy survey project are discussed (methods and findings have been discussed in papers 1 to 4). Recent pressures to improve the UK building industry and its products have so far focused on production and not performance in use. Feedback, however, reveals successes which are not immediately apparent even to experts (when newly completed, the best all-round performer in Probe did not make the shortlist for an environmental award), and that innovations can easily have unintended consequences. Meanwhile, persistent chronic low-level problems need to be tackled if we are to move towards the triple bottom line of more sustainable practice and create a base of sound practice upon which innovations can flourish. Factors for success include making sure essential features are in place; seeking simplicity, usability, manageability and responsiveness; identifying and managing downside risks; a culture of feedback with better benchmarking and constant review against client and design intentions; and more involvement of the supply side in improving and learning from the performance of buildings in use. Seven main themes are explored and initial actions suggested for the key industry players, clients and government.