Recognizing the effect of the thermal environment on self-perceived productivity in offices: A structural equation modeling perspective

Abstract

The evaluation of productivity in office buildings is particularly complex; studies indicate that occupants’ perceptions reflect thermal conditions and are therefore an important element to consider. This research reveals the interrelationships and relative influences of the thermal environmental factors of offices on the perceived productivity of workers. Through fieldwork conducted in winter and summer in 18 Chilean office buildings, information was collected from 940 occupants on 32 variables related to the thermal environment and self-perceived productivity. A total of 3551 responses were used together with environmental and physical data on the indoor built space to formulate a model that recognizes the effect of the thermal environment on productivity. In this model, the constructs of individual thermal sensation, thermal preference, and thermal acceptability are mediating variables that originate in different office parameters and influence perceived productivity. Subsequently, the model was validated and specified following the SEM methodology, thereby resulting in a reduced model of 10 significant variables. An analysis of the interrelationships established the importance of these variables associated with the design of built space and the management of comfort strategies considering work productivity.