Benchmarking
The process of comparing building performance metrics against industry standards or similar buildings to identify improvement opportunities.
Full Definition
Benchmarking is the process of comparing building performance metrics (such as energy consumption, maintenance costs, or space utilization) against industry standards, best practices, or similar buildings. It helps facility managers identify performance gaps, set improvement targets, and prioritize investments. Common benchmarks include ENERGY STAR scores, Energy Use Intensity (EUI), and industry-specific metrics. Benchmarking provides context for performance evaluation, helps justify improvement initiatives, and enables facility managers to understand how their buildings compare to peers and industry standards.
Related Terms
Building Performance
The overall effectiveness of a building in meeting its functional, environmental, and economic objectives.
Energy Consumption
The amount of energy used by building systems, equipment, and operations over a specific period.
Key Performance Indicator (KPI)
A measurable value that demonstrates how effectively a building or facility is achieving key operational objectives.