When choosing settings for each of the building performance factors, should you always choose the setting that gives the absolute lowest predicted energy use?
No, not always. Sometimes things that are the most efficient may cost more, change the construction too much, or make the project too difficult to complete among other issues. It is helpful to make things the most efficient but sometimes isn't the most realistic for every project.
How can you use Insight feedback to make design choices regarding materials, lightning, PV, etc.?
Given the data, you could change the surfaces and materials and plan for things like PVs in your building model. This is very helpful so that you can fully visualize the project and what materials will be used, along with how to incorporate changes like space for PVs into the design.
How can model-based quantity takeoff improve the design process?
Designers can take the information in these estimates and change some structural components to increase the affordability of the project and estimate how much certain components will impact the budget of the project.