Application of data envelopment analysis to benchmark building outputs

Abstract

Purpose

To present practical examples of a new approach to facilities benchmarking that uses data envelopment analysis to compare multiple output per m² ratios.

Design/methodology/approach

Demonstrates the first known use in facilities management of a new analytical technique.

Findings

A practical comparison of office buildings demonstrates that a combination of high user satisfaction and better than average accommodation efficiency can be obtained. Suggests a threshold density above which user satisfaction will decrease.

Research limitations/implications

The full potential for this new approach remains an active research project.

Practical implications

The new approach has already been applied in practice.

Originality/value

Original research using a technique that is new to facilities management and a challenge to prevailing conventions for facilities benchmarking metrics.

Citation

Pinder, J. and Price, I. (2005), "Application of data envelopment analysis to benchmark building outputs", Facilities, Vol. 23 No. 11/12, pp. 473-486. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632770510618444