User preferences for a simple energy design tool: Capturing information through focus groups with architects

In view of the stricter energy regulations, there is a growing need for early design support for lowenergy dwellings. Currently, many tools exist to evaluate the energy performance of buildings. However, the uptake of these tools by architects is limited, largely due to the fact that they are too complex and not adapted to their working method. To maximize the usability of energy tools for architects in early design, information is needed about the designers’ preferences and the way designers incorporate tools into their design process. The current paper reports on the results of three focus groups with architects and students in architecture addressing issues of data-input, output and the integration of energy tools in the architectural design process. The results provide information for researchers and tool developers to develop energy design support tools accordingly.

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