Abstract:
Post occupancy evaluation is one of the most important diagnostic tool and method of obtaining
performance data on occupants’ satisfaction. This study aimed at assessing occupants’ residential
satisfaction and the relative building performance in five purposively selected condominium sites
in Arba Minch town. The study was based on the idea that users’ satisfaction with dwelling units
is a measure of the residential buildings performance in meeting occupants’ needs and
expectations. A survey of 250 household in five condominium sites was conducted in the study
area. Data collection method used were structured questionnaire, site and building observation,
design document review and interview with occupants. The collected data was analyzed by SPSS
statistical software to generate descriptive data. The output result has shown that occupants’
satisfaction levels is relatively higher (MSS= 3.42) with dwelling unit; suggesting that the extent
to which the building are performing in meeting their needs and expectations is satisfactory. While,
it is lower with dwelling unit support services (MSS=2.81), social and psychological aspects
(MSS=2.56) and public facilities and infrastructure (MSS=2.17). An overall Mean Satisfaction
Score (MSS) of 2.74 was found; indicating that the respondents were generally not satisfied with
different components of their residential environments. The study revealed that defective works,
less attention given by governing body at post-occupancy stage and weak social network were the
main sources of problems that resulted in lower occupants’ satisfaction. Hence, Strong
commitment by the governing body to improve housing designs and regulate standards; together
with strengthened social network may create more safe and satisfactory public housing
environment.
