Usability evaluation of a building simulation web-based design guide on potential user group

The paper summarises the results of a usability testing exercise for a new building performance simulation based guide. The guide, presented via a webbased platform, aims to aid practitioners and policymakers during the early-design stages to achieve higher thermal and daylight performance. This study in two parts focuses on: understanding the usability of the contents of the guide; and, evaluating the design issues associated with the guide’s web-platform. The results of the usability testing show that the participants generally perceived the design guide easy to use and valuable during early-stages of design. Furthermore, the participants provided suggestions on areas for possible future improvements.