2010s

Smart Buildings

Smart Buildings

By 2010, advances in connected sensor-based devices and wireless communications allowed businesses to take advantage of the nascent Internet of Things (IoT)—and create the first true smart buildings. Initially, smart structures connected disparate building assets to understand energy consumption, better manage facilities and equipment, and automate occupier services.

 

These early buildings, however, could not monitor how building occupants use the space, their preferences, and behaviors inside the building. At the same time, new proptech companies began to offer end-to-end platforms to connect, integrate, and monitor diverse systems, devices, and data. These platforms combined new technologies like GPS-enabled smartphones and mobile devices, Wi-Fi and faster cellular technologies, and automated maintenance and robotic capabilities.

SHIFTING THE BUILT WORLD’S PARADIGM

Drill down to understand the resulting stakeholder needs

Business needs

Buildings that are more energy-efficient and less costly to manage, the ability to effectively monitor systems and buildings, improved wireless communications, enhanced worker productivity, and a reputation of sustainability and environmental responsibility. 

Human needs

A shared sense of purpose among individuals that enables them to work together toward a more sustainable environment.

Community needs

Build relationships between local communities and businesses, and create a reputation of sustainability and environmental responsibility.