Improving the Utility of Green Building Certification Resources: Fid-Bau Portal

Improving the Utility of Green Building Certification Resources

Jefferson, Dwayne / Paige, Frederick

A great deal expert knowledge is required to design complex sustainable infrastructure systems such as energy-efficient, affordable multifamily housing units. A more accessible understanding of how to optimize green building systems is needed to allow more builders and designers to engage in the delivery of sustainable construction projects. EarthCraft Multifamily (ECMF), a green building certification, was designed for traditional builders to engage in the process of delivering affordable sustainable multifamily units. To date, has certified more than 45,000 energy-efficient housing units. This study aims to improve the accessibility and usability of ECMF tools and resources such as the program manual, worksheet, and technical guidelines. User experience (UX) methodologies are being leveraged to enhance ECMF resources’ delivery of affordable sustainable housing. User interviews, stakeholder interviews, and heuristic evaluations provide detailed information on the usability strengths and weaknesses of ECMF. Preliminary findings show potential for EarthCraft resources to evolve in their layout, content, and delivery methods. It has also been found that ECMF tools have encouraged the selection of optimal sustainable design practices in new construction and renovation projects. While a base level of expertise will always be needed in infrastructure delivery for safety reasons, the delivery of sustainable designs can be more accessible to a larger range of stakeholders by improving user experiences of resources and tools. By making the process more approachable, non-expert stakeholders can better manage their role in the process. The procedures and findings from this study are transferable to other green infrastructure rating/certification programs, with similar resources, such as LEED and Envision.