Placing User Needs at the Centre of Building Performance Simulation: Transferring Knowledge from Human Computer Interaction

Abstract

This paper reviews and explores some principles and theories of Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and the related field of Interaction Design in relation to Building Performance Simulation (BPS). HCI seeks to make computer systems and software more useable and more attractive to its users. The main focus of the paper is on the interaction between user and computer system and how interaction could facilitate the knowledge transfer of BPS procedures and processes from experts to non-experts. The paper discusses users and their tasks, designing for interaction, and the level of control different users might have over BPS. Design patterns are proposed as a means of interaction between user and computer system. The aim of the paper is to provide a platform for a future discussion on the extent to which BPS has engaged with HCI practices and principles, and the possibilities HCI holds for the further development of BPS. A number of research directions are identified