In the world of smart buildings, the term “smart building” is widely discussed. Depending on whom you ask, the definition varies: data platform providers, sensor and hardware manufacturers, and reservation tool suppliers each have their own interpretation. Although these parties offer solutions that contribute to the concept of a smart building, they often focus on specific aspects.

Who Are They Solving Problems For?

The solutions offered are usually aimed at different stakeholders: owners, CFOs, facility managers, administrators, and users. However, many of these solutions are partial and do not always seamlessly connect with each other. The challenge lies in connecting and adapting these partial solutions without overdoing it. After all, no one wants a ceiling full of sensors. A fine-mesh, subtle sensor network is desirable—something every architect will agree on. Building management system (BMS) manufacturers often focus less on end users, while lighting manufacturers are not platform builders, and data companies are not hardware suppliers. Ultimately, everything must come together in an open and adaptive system.

The Art of Integration

The challenge is to create a system that is fully utilized. This starts with a foundation that is expandable and connectable, especially in multi-tenant environments. We like to talk about a “connected building”: a building where solutions are linked, solutions work together, and—most importantly—the building’s users communicate with each other and with the building itself. To achieve this, we need to think in reverse.

Reverse Engineering: Putting the User at the Center

Too often, buildings are still constructed or transformed without a clear target group in mind. From our perspective, the building user must be the central focus. The building must adapt in all its facets to the user and facilitate them with the necessary technology in the best possible way. Therefore, it is essential to know who the user is and what their needs are. Which organizations is the acquisition targeting? This way, the right (existing) technology can be applied, which the tenant might bring from another building. Let’s even involve the users in the process!
By applying this knowledge, users can proactively contribute to improving the efficiency and effectiveness of building systems, resulting in a better alignment with their daily activities and preferences. Additionally, it allows them to provide feedback to facility managers or technical service providers about possible improvements or adjustments that could enhance functionality and comfort. The ultimate goal is to create an environment that is not only technologically advanced but also closely aligned with the users’ wishes and requirements.

An Open and Flexible Foundation

The foundation of the building, the building management system (BMS), is essential in this. A foundation that is open to other solutions and can accommodate different tenants bringing their own applications (such as reservation apps). The system must provide insights into space usage and not charge an all-in price but instead offer incentives to promote sustainability.

Behavioral Change through Data

In the end, everything revolves around behavior. Based on data, we can make decisions to use our buildings more efficiently, aiming for healthier and more sustainable buildings. Use what you need, no more. We must realize that things can be done smarter and differently. So much effort is being made; put the user at the center, not the building itself. Build around the user.

In a future article, I would like to return to what is applicable to achieve this. What is needed for this “reverse engineering” with the user at the center, and what role does and will AI play in this built environment?

About the Author

Smart Business Concepts is the one point of contact for smart buildings, offices, and workplaces, specializing in the full transformation to a smart, healthy, sustainable, and future-proof office building and workplaces.

Smart Business Concepts is a Made for Paris Partner. Learn more about them here: https://madefor.paris/partners/smart-business-concepts/