Eta is the seventh letter of the Greek alphabet. We are all familiar with the use of another Greek letter, delta
( ), to denote the difference between two values. Eta is commonly used in engineering curricula to denote "efficiency," as in the efficiency of a the conversion of fuel into useful energy, or the efficiency of transmission of power generated in an engine to motive force at the associated drive shaft. In short, eta is the measure of efficiency.

We at Eta Engineers realize that "efficiency" can be defined in many ways when referring to the procurement of new buildings or the renovation of old building stock. The mechanical efficiency of the building’s heating system is one type of efficiency, and – quite honestly – is rather easy to define. The efficiency of how that building’s heating system is procured, put into place, and operated by the Building Owner, Manager, or Developer over the life of the building presents a whole other set of issues that requires one to look outside of the strictly mechanical. We at Eta Engineers are comfortable looking outside of the strictly technical engineering aspects of a project.

We are not locked into one strict project delivery method. We realize that Owners’ and Architect’s needs often change on a project by project basis; the traditional "Plans and Spec" scenario does not make sense in all cases. And yes, we well understand that no one ever really has a crystal clear idea of how their building is going to be used before they build it. Realizing this, we are not afraid to use our professional judgment and experience to make the decisions necessary to keep the design process moving. We do not continually "await direction from the Architect." We believe it is incumbent upon us as Engineers to aid and abet the design process whenever possible.

Eta … The measure of efficiency.