If you’re a smart facility manager (and I’m going to assume that you are), you’re probably using technology in a lot of ways that FMs 20 years ago wouldn’t have imagined. Technology has revolutionized every aspect of our lives and buildings and equipment has not been left out. The ways that we can automate and connect to the building environment to make staff and student lives easier is amazing. And the amount of data we can pull out of all this technology woven into our facilities means we can make well-informed decisions like never before.
The Power of IoT and Intelligent Building Automation Systems
Facilities can take advantage of Internet of Things (IoT) and intelligent building automation systems (BAS) to create buildings that are more autonomous and respond immediately to stimuli. Intelligent building automation systems take things to a new level by interpreting data from various sources and adjusting accordingly. For example, lighting might turn on or off based on or off daylight in the room, or be linked to calendars to turn on when occupants are scheduled to be present, instead of having a static on/off schedule. Similar actions can be set for heating, cooling, and security systems. IoT devices can be used to monitor conditions in facilities, analyze data, and predict patterns. IoT devices can monitor structural deterioration of buildings and critical infrastructure, detect defects early, and alert of safety risks, as one example. Pretty powerful to realize how technology can help us, huh?Streamlined operations and preventive maintenance save time and resources in the long run.
Empowering Data-Driven Decisions
Using technology like this in facilities empowers data-driven decisions. If occupants are underutilizing areas, you can make decisions that are more energy efficient and occupant-friendly. Diverting from more used, more crowded areas to help occupants feel more spread out or simply turning off air and lights if there’s no way to find a use for areas. Facility managers have the opportunity to assess how to best enhance student and staff experience, as well as consider sustainability.
Enhancing Maintenance Management with CMMS
Another aspect of using data to inform decision making is managing your maintenance in a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS).
Creating an Optimal Learning Environment
Helping make schools a more enjoyable, comfortable place allows students to embrace the full potential of their education and connect with their peers and teachers. Smart facility managers are taking full advantage of the technology that’s out there to set a new standard for building management.
