ABSTRACT
There are many benefits that can be derived from using commercial software for surveys and analysis. The data is collected in a systematic way, providing a faster, and understandable survey. Using software can reduce the total audit process time by reducing the time spent in transferring or repeating data from the data collection phase to the analysis phase. Programs provide a database for management reports and facility models can be generated by creating a library of audits categorized according to building type. Information is readily available for follow-up visits and evaluations. Representative utility cost and energy conservation measures (ECM) analyses can easily be performed and cataloged for various building types. In addition, using software programs eliminates the potential inaccuracy and tedious hours of manually performing the calculations required for analyzing various retrofit options. The computer programs now available are easy to use and will usually prove valuable to the auditor. The most useful audit and analysis software is described.
