Is the facilities management sector embracing the increasing number of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, or is it a trend for the future?
The integration of digital and physical worlds is becoming more prevalent in our daily lives, from smart thermostats and cars to fitness trackers. We may not fully realise how interconnected we are, but the number of IoT devices is projected to nearly double by 2030, reaching 32.1 billion devices. What are IoT devices, and how are they integrated?
IoT uses various technologies to connect the digital and physical worlds. Physical objects can be embedded with sensors and actuators that are connected to internet sensors for receiving and transmitting instructions, as well as collecting and exchanging data with other devices and systems over the Internet.
They may measure temperature, motion, or any change in the environment and provide valuable data. For businesses, IoT can help them better understand their internal systems and operations and make changes that drive efficiency and productivity.
IoT devices in FM
IoT can be used in facilities management by creating an interconnected network of sensors, devices, and equipment. These devices gather real-time data from various systems such as lighting, HVAC, and security. The data is then analysed in the cloud to identify trends and potential issues. This enables predictive maintenance, efficient resource allocation, and enhanced occupant comfort. Examples of how IoT could be used in facilities management include:
Dynamic scheduling: Adjusting cleaning schedules based on actual usage patterns and occupancy data.
Cleanliness sensors: Detect dirt and spills, triggering cleaning alerts.
Energy management: Monitor and optimise energy usage to identify waste and improve light and heating systems.
HVAC systems: Sensors could manage air quality and predict system maintenance.
Sustainability initiatives: Monitor and manage water usage, detect leaks, and optimise systems, or optimise waste collection and ensure proper disposal with smart bins and tracking systems
Predictive maintenance: Much facilities management is currently reactive; but sensors measuring equipment efficiency could help anticipate failures, reduce downtime, and extend the life of the equipment.
Supporting the ESG goals of a business
ESG initiatives are at the top of many business agendas, and with the installation of IoT devices, data may be collected to support business goals.
IoT devices can collect data to support these initiatives. For example, smart meters and leak detection sensors can help optimise energy and water usage, reducing waste and minimising carbon footprints. These solutions also have the ability to monitor how food waste such as plastics, metals and paper is being recycled.
Smart devices can also improve occupant health and safety, and assistive technologies can enhance accessibility. IoT benefits governance through enhanced compliance and reporting capabilities, offering stakeholders clear insights into the facility’s performance against ESG benchmarks.
The challenges of adopting technology in FM
The challenges around adopting IoT technology in facilities management can be multifaceted.
Often, with any technology, the price of devices can be a sticking point as to whether they can be a cost-effective solution. As some of these solutions have been around for a few years now, prices continue to drop and become more affordable, with the average cost for industrial IOT sensors dropping over 70 per cent from 2004 to 2020. However, setting up IoT systems still requires a substantial initial investment in sensors, devices, network infrastructure, and software. In addition, many facilities have legacy equipment and processes that may not easily accommodate IoT technology.
IoT devices are often connected to external cloud storage and could be vulnerable to hacking, leading to potential data breaches and operational disruptions if not sufficiently protected.
A vision for innovation and enhanced service offerings
At the Tudor Group, we are continually looking for ways to improve our operations. From customer satisfaction to the way we collect data and meet each client’s unique needs, being a forward-thinking business is part of what we do.
Whilst many of these technologies are not currently adopted across our operations, we are beginning to see an increased demand for them in the industry. Fabien Caqueret, Managing Director at the Tudor Group, comments:
“The integration of IoT technology offers us a unique opportunity to revolutionise how we deliver services to our clients. By harnessing real-time data from IoT devices, we can enhance operational efficiency and optimise maintenance schedules.
“We will continue to explore opportunities to improve our service offering to clients, whether that be through IoT technology, the machinery we use, or investing in the development of our staff.”
If you would like to know more about how we can tailor our service to meet your unique needs, please get in touch by emailing sales@tudorcc.com or call us on 0161 789 3550.
