Perception of IEQ Factors on Workplace Satisfaction Using Kano Satisfaction Model: A Case Study of Malls in Hot-Humid Climate

Abstract

This study reveals retailers’ perception of and their preference to some selected IEQ factors in relation to their workplace. Retailers of two types of malls (mixed-mode ventilated and Air conditioned malls) were studied under the following objectives: 1) To determine the retailers’ perception of some IEQ factors in each mall, and 2) To develop a pattern of the impact of retailers’ perception of some IEQ factors on their overall workplace satisfaction using the Kano satisfaction model. A subjective IEQ measurement was carried out and descriptive analysis was done on retailers’ responses to reveal their level of satisfaction after which a regression analysis was carried out on their perception of some IEQ factors. The results revealed that the air-conditioned ventilated mall recorded the highest mean satisfaction votes. Results also indicated that retailers in the mixed-mode ventilated malls considered air movement within their workplace as a necessity as the negative influence has a greater impact (regression coefficient 3.35*, -4.29*) on overall satisfaction. However, the absolute magnitude of the impact between satisfied and dissatisfied groups is not significantly different, thus, ‘air movement’ in the mixed-mode ventilated malls is categorized as proportional factor. Whereas, retailers in the AC mall responded to satisfactory air movement as something not expected (regression coefficient 3.27**, -2.19NS). On the other hand, retailers in the AC mall expected a controlled environment like theirs to thermally satisfy its occupants. Findings from this study will provide a better understanding of workers’ expectations and concerns with regard to their indoor environmental conditions.