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The range of connected devices with the rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the modern office. Learn how to start the process of transforming your workplace into a smart building to accommodate and take advantage of the range of IoT devices
The Internet of Things (IoT) is changing the way both wireless networks and offices operate. There are whole new sets of devices, such as wearables, that businesses need to consider when planning for new technology integration. These “smart” devices have transformed traditional appliances and devices into a network of smart objects that communicate with one another. According to data from IDC, spending on the IoT will reach over $1 trillion in 2022.
Businesses are also wise to recognize the savings these devices can provide in offices and buildings, including energy and expense savings. As the IoT continues to grow, how can you prepare your buildings to make the transition to smart?
Know where to place your IoT investments
Which smart devices are going to be the best to invest in for businesses as the IoT continues to grow? The most common types of general smart devices include:
- Temperature control
- Lighting
- Access/security/surveillance (cameras, locks)
- Advanced monitoring
- Appliances (microwaves, vacuums)
- Speakers
- Personal AI assistants
- Wearables (smartwatches, fitness trackers, patient monitors)
These devices communicate data back to an app on a smartphone or computer, and they can usually be controlled remotely.
For businesses, which kind of smart devices are good investments? These devices will all work together within the building to connect equipment and transfer data via sensors, and this data is provided in reports and easily digestible information dashboards.
According to Berg Insight, access and security, fire and safety, elevator and escalator management, and HVAC systems have been the most successful automated solutions for buildings. IoT components in these systems include smart cameras to monitor both indoor and outdoor activity, smart locks, and smart climate control systems.
These moving parts and sensors are typically controlled in a central building management system (BMS). Additional technologies are also becoming more popular that aim to help reduce the carbon footprint of buildings, including energy-saving devices like smart thermostats.
Employees also benefit from the use of personal AI assistants, which allow for easy dictation, scheduling, taking notes, and other tasks that streamline business processes and free up time.
Other smart building considerations
When you’re deciding which smart devices to invest in, consider what’s working and what isn’t with your current systems. Which updates would your office benefit from most? What will have the most positive effect on productivity in the short term? Start with these areas, and slowly work your way toward scaling to a full-on smart workplace.
It’s also wise to create a plan for making any purchases or technology updates. This plan should comprise both temporary and long-term fixes and integrations, taking costs and rollout timelines into account. Try out one new technology at a time to see how it impacts workflow, workplace morale and the bottom line. A big benefit of integrating smart devices is their ability to provide real-time data that helps you assess performance, ROI and success rates.
When developing your overall strategy, include representatives from every department in planning, including finance, facilities management, wireless network management/IT and sales. Ask for feedback about concerns and find out which areas and processes could use the most work. Involving the entire team will reveal weak points and gather new perspectives from experts across departments.
These considerations will ensure that you’re taking all steps necessary to transition your office into a smart building. Depending on your budget, the age of your building, and your specific workplace needs, the transition could take time, so be patient and stay on top of planning and updating strategy as needed.
This transition is needed now more than ever as IoT devices are going to continue to infiltrate your organization’s wireless network boundary, so remember that changes to your Wi-Fi management strategy will also need to be addressed.
By knowing where to place your investments and where to start within the company, you’ll be able to create reachable goals for creating a smart office that everyone on the team will benefit from, in addition to the energy savings that these devices can provide right away.
At Unisol International, we provide a range of products that increase security, including security cameras and video management software, and help you increase productivity by streamlining processes, including our point of sale and storage systems.
To learn more about how our products can improve your enterprise, contact Unisol today to get started.
