Module 9 - Points to Ponder

Can you guarantee that the completed building will match the performance predicted by the analysis in its day-to-day operations?

• Why or why not?
• You can’t guarantee that the performance will match the prediction. This is because external factors can affect the building performance that were not accounted for in the analysis.

When choosing settings for each of the building performance factors, should you always choose the setting that gives the absolute lowest predicted energy use?

How can you use Insight feedback to make design choices regarding materials, lighting, PV, etc.?

4D simulations are often used to show the construction sequence for an entire project, but shorter simulations that focus on a specific period of time are also useful.

• Can you provide examples of how a simulation that focuses on a 1 or 2 week period could be useful for planning?

What level of detail should be included in a 4D simulation?

• Should you include all of the elements in the building model?
• I believe if it is an element that takes substantial time to build, it should definitely be included in the building model. In order to get an accurate depiction of what the project schedule is going to be like, I believe its important to have any aspect of the model which will take a substantial time to build.

How can the feedback shown in a 4D simulation help you to optimize the project schedule?

• You can better schedule out the tasks in the 4D simulation. The simulation can also show you what areas can be further optimized so you can build the building faster than the project schedule. Also, it helps to see the tasks separated and categorized.

How can model-based quantity takeoff improve the design process?

How can designers improve their designs using the information provided by preliminary estimates of the cost of building their design ideas?