Smart bricks and mortar

Artificial intelligence is playing a key role in integrating next generation technologies and automating networks – and for me, smart buildings represent one of the most exciting elements of that, allowing workspaces to become more efficient and productive.

We are in the midst of a fascinating period of connected innovation with huge possibilities. Such sweeping AI developments are serving to significantly increase the use of telecom networks, with the advent of 5G expected to lend them further momentum in the coming years.

However, with the digital connectivity of commercial premises now among the key considerations for any tenant or prospective occupier, smart buildings are core to the revolution. They’re underpinning smart cities and creating more efficient, more harmonious workplaces that positively impact bottom lines through the intelligent management of assets while enhancing job satisfaction for occupants. By overlaying an IT network, connecting all traditionally unconnected equipment, and applying automated analytics and controls, building owners and managers can significantly reduce energy waste and cut costs.

Smart buildings are also speedy indeed – those aforementioned 5G networks are expected to provide data rates of one gigabyte per second simultaneously to many workers on the same office floor, not to mention several hundreds of thousands of simultaneous connections for wireless sensors.

Effectively then, smart buildings can constantly react to the needs of their occupants. Those sensors can record information about movement, light, temperature and carbon dioxide levels to moderate the building’s systems at all times. Heating, air conditioning, and lighting can automatically be turned off in a room that’s not being used, while areas of the building that are being used more than others can trigger a notification that expedites extra cleaning.

Simultaneously, the building can log the activities of its occupants, so when they return after a gap in time, they may receive an automatic alert asking them if they want to repeat a previous meeting with the same attendees, thus reducing admin.

The possibilities of what can be achieved by smart buildings are virtually endless. There is also abig opportunity for those providers leading the way - the global smart building market is expected to grow to $31.74 billion by 2022. With that in mind, it’s important to firstly consult a smart building application provider that has experience in creating similar solutions to those that will be at the centre of your own smart building.

With the advent of smart building technology, it’s never been easier to uncover new business insights that are capable of driving real value and enhancing performance. ● Tom Sime is MD of Exchange Communications