Towards the efficient use of simulation in building performance analysis: a user survey

Abstract

Inadequate presentation of analytical results has been identified as a barrier to the use of simulation tools in the construction industry. The objective of this paper is to substantiate the existence of this barrier and to provide data to support research into its effective removal. The approach taken is to survey users by means of an online questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Survey data is presented for each step of the analytical process alongside details of the respondents' levels of experience with various software applications. The majority of respondents were either building services or structural engineers and an intergroup comparison is made. Building services engineers of various levels of experience participated in follow-up interviews and the results are presented. The survey results indicate that whilst difficulties of working with analytical results are recognized as a barrier to using simulation other barriers are perceived to be a greater hindrance. Users were also generally happy with the presentation of their results. However the interviewees all described the lengthy process required to validate their analytical models and stated that their tools require improvement to aid this process. The paper argues that whilst not recognized as the greatest barrier to the use of simulation tools there is justification for improving the manipulation and presentation of analytical results.

Findings from a survey on the current use of daylight simulations in building design

“…As in Pilgrim's earlier study, "the questionnaire is based on an open sample, and as such the results cannot be proven to be representative of any given population" 13 . But with nearly 200 responses collected, "patterns can be identified and cross-discipline analysis is possible" 13 . Table 1 shows the professions participants chose from eight available categories.…”

“…• Paper, postage and printing costs, as well as survey administration time were reduced compared to mail surveys 13 . Results were readily available in electronic form for further analysis.…”

“…Detailed simulation tools remain the domain of engineers. Quality assurance and consistency analysis of simulation input and output remain a concern for software users 13 .…”

“…In a recent study, Pilgrim, Bouchlaghem, Loveday and Holmes conducted an online survey for architects and engineers to identify remaining barriers to the use of simulation tools in the construction industry 13 . The survey web page was advertised to members of the Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers and the Royal Institute of British Architects.…”

Selection criteria for building performance simulation tools: contrasting architects' and engineers' needs

“…However, in his work he highlighted emerging trends regarding interoperability, knowledge base integration, and adaptability for different design phases and design teams in addition functional and validation criteria (Augenbroe, 2002). Also Pilgrim et al in (2003) conducted a study aiming to identify barriers to the use of BPS tools. The study focused mainly on evaluating the presentation of post-processing output results.…”