ABSTRACT
This chapter describes how to employ methods and procedures to create the most usable, efficient, and pleasant environments for occupants. Occupancy assessments add to architects', contractors', owners', and managers' understanding of how to improve other buildings and properties, including future projects. More specifically, accessibility assessments and post-occupancy evaluations (POE) systematically examine a building's construction and performance in order to evaluate compliance with codes, identify areas of success, and outline opportunities for improvement. Facility management practices regarding safety, maintenance, and operations help reinforce and support successful designs throughout the life span of a building. The shakedown period occurs immediately after a building is constructed, when minor glitches in policies, designs, and/or systems are identified and resolved prior to the site and facility becoming operational and occupied. Commissioning is an important activity for realizing inclusive design, particularly as new and innovative technologies are being introduced into buildings. Inclusive design, at its highest level of practice, is a continual improvement process.
