How do daylight and views credits contribute to IEQ?

• A. They reduce energy use by 60%
• B. They improve occupant comfort and productivity by increasing natural light and visual access to the outdoors
• C. They cause more glare and discomfort
• D. They have no effect

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that daylight and views credits improve the quality of the indoor environment by enhancing how occupants experience the space. Providing daylight gives people more natural light, which supports visual comfort and can help with mood and alertness. Access to outdoor views connects occupants to the outside world, reducing feelings of confinement and supporting well-being. Taken together, these credits boost comfort and productivity because people tend to perform better and feel better when they have ample natural light and views.

The other points aren’t the focus here: daylighting can reduce the need for artificial lighting, but the question centers on IEQ benefits, not a fixed energy percentage. Proper design also mitigates glare rather than causing it. And these credits do have an effect; saying they have no effect wouldn’t fit the evidence on occupant comfort and performance.