By harnessing the latest technology, smart buildings ensure efficient and economical use of resources – benefitting the people who use the building, the people who manage it, and the environment.

In this article, we’ll explain more about what smart buildings are and the ways in which they can benefit organisations.

What are smart buildings?

Smart buildings are buildings that incorporate Internet of Things (IoT) devices in their design. This allows facility managers to analyse data, monitor activities, and optimise operations taking place inside them.

Smart buildings can deploy IoT devices on a variety of scales, ranging from just a few sensors to a vast network. Regardless of size, the purpose of a smart building is to provide data insights about what’s happening within the different systems of the building.

The benefits of smart buildings

The main benefits of smart buildings come from the network of devices that power them. When there’s data that paints a picture of how a building is used, it’s easier to understand and effectively manage them. Below, we’ve highlighted three key benefits that result from this.

1. Reducing emissions

One of the key benefits that smart buildings offer us is the opportunity to significantly lower energy consumption. This is because data insight allows for the optimisation of operations and processes.

With building operations accounting for a high proportion of energy usage, making the construction of smart buildings widespread is a clear way for the UK government to support its 2050 net-zero goal.

2. Lower operating costs

As well as reducing emissions, smart buildings allow for lower operating costs. Devices can identify wasteful energy usage patterns, allowing building users to identify areas in which money can be saved.

According to research published by Statista, most non-residential buildings have an EPC rating of C or D in England and Wales – highlighting the fact that many organisations stand to gain by implementing smart building technology.

This potential ROI is one of the most persuasive arguments for companies to invest in smart buildings. The data insights can lead to better decision makings, which in turn can lead to long-term savings.

3. Automation opportunities

By creating stronger links between physical space and digital systems, you can open up a plethora of automation opportunities. The networks of devices make it possible to manage the building remotely,

Are smart buildings the future of construction?

As technological advancements continue to be made, the opportunities they present us with shouldn’t be ignored. This is just as true with smart buildings as with other technologies.

By combining IoT devices with intelligent building design, organisations can buildings that are more sustainable, more affordable, and more effectively managed.