Beta features introduce emerging or yet-to-be-addressed strategies into WELL, providing projects even more opportunities to maximize health and well-being and create people-first places.

What are beta features?

The WELL Building Standard (WELL) undergoes regular evolution in response to new and emerging research, shifts in industry-wide best practices, social justice and environmental movements, and advances in technology. These market drivers push the boundaries of WELL and help to ensure that it remains the world’s premier framework to incorporate health and well-being into business decision-making and culture. 

WELL evolves through the addenda process and by introducing beta features and parts. Beta features address new and emerging technology or research or topics that have yet to be addressed in WELL. Beta features, like all WELL features, undergo a rigorous development, review, and maintenance process.

Who are beta features for?

Any project with the appropriate space or occupant types may pursue a given beta feature.

How do beta features work?

You can find all beta features in their relevant concept area within WELL v2 and WELL v2 pilot. Beta features are designated by the beta symbol (β) in the feature code (e.g., S09β). New beta features are released with the WELL addenda.

Beta features are optimizations and include the same fundamental components of WELL features such as an intent, background, parts, points, requirements, etc. Beta features count towards the minimum and maximum available points per concept and can be pursued as innovation points for projects who have exceeded the maximum allowable points per concept.

Projects that pursue a beta strategy in their scorecard must submit additional documentation that helps IWBI gather feedback on the scope and feasibility of the strategy. This information is reviewed by IWBI’s Standard Development team and informs refinement of the feature during the graduation process. Project teams submit the feedback form directly in the WELL digital platform.