BMS Systems – Technology in the built environment

We live in an advancing, connected world, dominated by the internet, smartphones and tablets. No longer do people seek information in books, but gain the information they want with a few clicks.

Similarly, we are beginning to see the utilisation of technology in the built environment to monitor and upkeep buildings. Technological advances have armed Facilities Managers with the tools to enable them to manage buildings more effectively and efficiently. These technologies save time and money by automating the scheduling and monitoring of buildings and the utilisation of building management systems (BMS) is becoming widespread in the industry. Building management systems have the ability to oversee the fire safety, security systems, energy management and HVAC systems.

By overseeing these functions, BMS systems can schedule all planned and reactive maintenance and this significantly reduces time spent on administrative tasks. Through the use of centralised systems, Facilities Managers can monitor all aspects of the building and foresee any problems before any issues arise. This reduces reactive maintenance costs, increases employee productivity and will improve the efficiency of the building.

Though these technologies are highly advantageous, it is important that you bring in the correct systems regardless of costs as the wrong system can jeopardise the safety of tenants, contractors, visitors and the buildings themselves. By using the wrong systems and increasing the possibility of risk, you are in danger of incurring further costs in the long run with faults, failures and safety issues.

The technology behind BMS systems is advancing at an exponential rate and though they may seem advanced today, in five years time they will most likely be obsolete. In order to prevent your technology from becoming extinct after investing significant amounts, you need first mentality plan where all of your facility management systems are interlinked and connected, and then ensure you implement the right systems that compliment each other, work together and ultimately, allow full visibility of all systems. This means that you and your business aren’t relying on 1 software to oversee the building and the tenants safety, as it’s important to remember, with technology – anything can go wrong!