The Internet of Things (IoT) has enhanced the way we live and work, allowing us to seamlessly connect to appliances and electronics via the Internet through our mobile devices. IoT is defining what it means to be connected in the modern era. Now this powerful technology is poised to move beyond our homes and into the world of commercial building automation.
Commercial buildings today rely on building management systems (BMS) that are still tied to wires, specialized software, proprietary hardware, and user interfaces that leave much to be desired. They simply are not on par with what has become commonplace in consumer products. Here’s a look at what’s wrong with traditional BMS products and how IoT is going to revolutionize these systems.
1. Complicated Technology. Traditional BMS products are complicated, which means more work and frustration for building managers. An IoT-enabled BMS uses fewer parts and leverages modern technology to streamline system interactions, equaling a more reliable and accurate system that will make building management easier. From simple installation to intuitive software, IoT will simplify your building’s once-complicated BMS reality.
2. Difficult User Interface. In the past, BMS products had a steep learning curve. Their clunky user interfaces (UI) often meant hours of training, or worse — that a specialized technician had to be called to implement a change. An IoT-enabled BMS solution is intuitive, responsive, and simple. In fact, it is so simple that it requires little to no training. It will make building control accessible to everyone, regardless of expertise or experience.
3. Relies on Proprietary Products. One of the biggest issues with traditional BMS products is that most use proprietary systems that are specific to a single manufacturer. This means you’ve got to stick with that manufacturer when you want to upgrade your system and use them for service or repairs. But the story is different with an IoT-based BMS. This game-changing technology can seamlessly connect to a wide variety of hardware types and manufactures. It is designed to be “friendly” and “play well with others”. This provides customers choices and avoids vendor lock-in.
4. Limited Access. Away from the office? On the road? Historically, you may be concerned about who will manage incoming comfort calls and make adjustments to the BMS. Not a problem with an IoT-based BMS solution which is optimized for mobile devices. There is no longer a need to be present in the building, dial in, or access a special computer. So whether you’re at work, at home, or somewhere in between, you’ll always have 24/7 access.
5. Costs You Money. Traditional BMS products are expensive. A BMS that utilizes leading-edge IoT technology has less hardware and is easier to install. That saves money on the front end. It can also significantly reduce the time facility operators spend in support of their buildings, saving money and allowing staff to be more productive. In fact, operators with an advanced BMS can expect a sizeable improvement in overall efficiency, including energy, maintenance, and other recurring costs.
6. Leaves Energy Savings on the Table. Traditional BMS platforms can leave areas of untapped savings. Integrating an IoT-enabled BMS that includes advanced rooftop-unit control will help your building operate more efficiently and save energy by optimizing fan control, advanced economization and demand control ventilation. And these energy savings translate into significant cost savings!
Want to learn more about IoT-enabled BMS? Look no further than Transformative Wave’s Cobalt. This ground-breaking technology is a scalable IoT-based building management system designed for customers with constant volume systems (e.g., RTU, WSHP, Fan Coil, Split Systems, etc.) with or without economizer control. Its advanced technology is transforming buildings into smart facilities, saving time, money, and energy. For more information about Transformative Wave’s Cobalt or to request a demo, visit www.transformativewave.com.
