Usability and fitness testing for building performance simulation tools

Abstract

Architects and engineers who seek design decision aid for sustainable building and city design frequently experience decisional conflict and require support across the design process. Building performance simulations have become central to supporting the design process, but little is known about the fit and usability of simulation tools and the factors influencing the implementation of simulation-based design in practice. This paper presents a novel framework for simulation tool usability called USER-FIT. The framework defines usability based on ISO definitions, a review of evidence in the literature, and our experience supporting the development of the framework. USER-FIT provides six measures for modelers and software developers to test how a simulation tool is useful, usable, and satisfactory for the intended users to inform sustainable design decision-making. Further research and testing are needed to support better the acquisition and implantation of usability testing for building performance simulation tools and applications.