Why Has the Adoption of Smart Buildings Not Been Widespread?

Even though Smart Building solutions are easily accessible, there are several reasons behind commercial properties not being transformed into Smart Buildings

Smart Buildings support the integrated and automated operation of building systems to significantly improve building performance, sustainability, resilience, and occupant experience. However, despite their enormous potential, less than 5% of Grade A commercial buildings and less than 1% of all buildings are Smart Buildings.

One reason for this paltry uptake is the cost and complexity of implementation and maintenance. Smart Building solutions require a diverse range of specialised systems and applications, such as access control, building automation, video surveillance, energy management, car parking, concierge, room booking, and visitor management, to name a few. However, these systems and applications are meant to operate in silos and are supplied and installed by different vendors. Getting them to work together seamlessly is where much of the challenge lies.

Finally, the increasing focus on the occupant and visitor experience requires constant updates to technology, which many may find difficult to stay up to date with.

Therefore, while Smart Building solutions may be widely available, getting the economics of Smart Buildings right is key to their widespread adoption.