LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

What performance outcome is associated with improved occupant productivity in a commissioning process?

1. Higher energy costs

2. Frustrated building occupants

3. Optimized building operations and systems performance

4. Increased maintenance issues

The correct answer is: Optimized building operations and systems performance

Optimized building operations and systems performance is directly linked to improved occupant productivity as a result of the commissioning process. When a building undergoes commissioning, the systems that control the environment, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC), lighting, and controls, are thoroughly tested and fine-tuned to ensure they function as intended. This process helps to create a comfortable and conducive environment for occupants, minimizing issues such as poor air quality, inadequate lighting, or uncomfortable temperatures. By ensuring that all systems operate efficiently and effectively, the commissioning process not only enhances overall building performance but also creates a space where occupants can focus better, experience less discomfort, and ultimately improve their productivity. This connection is critical in settings like offices, schools, and healthcare facilities, where occupant performance can significantly impact outcomes such as work quality, learning, and even patient recovery. In contrast, higher energy costs, frustrated building occupants, and increased maintenance issues are pathways leading to a decline in productivity, highlighting the importance of getting the building operations optimized.