Smarter Homes & Buildings ASHB (Association for Smarter Homes & Buildings)

The definition of smart building has evolved since 1981 when the term was originally coined, and it has transformed well beyond lighting and HVAC systems. In the age of artificial intelligence, the possibilities for even smarter buildings are endless. Technology advancements in hardware, software and now generative AI brings new context and capabilities that require rethinking what a smart building really is. Today, an AI-enabled smart building can incorporate the use of IoT devices for real-time data capture, sensor technology for utilization metrics, intelligent automation for accomplishing day-to-day facilities tasks, and predictive analytics to optimize performance.  AI will enable the building to leverage operational data to inform decisions and respond to the immediate and future needs of the occupants.

Dive into the world of smart buildings with industry experts Darlene Pope, President of Planon North America, Dr. Rick Huijbregts, Global Lead of Smart Cities at Stantec, and Pay Wu, President and Co-Founder of MWBE Unite. Together, our host and guests take us on a journey to discover how we should be thinking about Gen AI’s impact on legacy real estate systems, and how to harness AI and Machine Learning to inform the future of the industry.

J. Christopher Larry joins a panel of distinguished experts as they delve into the fascinating world of fire alarm systems in smart buildings and homes. With insights from Suzanne Alfano, Rick Heffernan, Dr. Rodger W Reiswig, and Birgitte Messerschmidt, this episode explores the history, challenges, and emerging technologies shaping fire and life safety in modern buildings. From the inception of fire alarm systems to the latest advancements in AI-based detection and remote inspection technologies, the panel provides valuable perspectives on the evolution of fire safety. Discover how smart technology is revolutionizing fire prevention and response, while also addressing challenges such as cybersecurity risks and equitable access to safety measures.

As solar continues to grow as a solution for companies, developers and homeowners to make buildings more sustainable, the industry is naturally becoming much more complex. Solar installations are not just projects but rather a crucial play in the grander team sport of transitioning to renewable energy for a greener future. 

In this episode, JD Dillon, Chief Marketing Officer of global solar manufacturer Tigo Energy, engages in a conversation with Martyna Kowalczyk, owner of SolarTime USA, a solar installer in Dallas, Texas. They delve into the state of the solar industry, emphasizing the critical role of collaboration, quality, and the increasing importance of software as a solar component. The discussion covers industry trends, challenges, and the responsibility of all stakeholders in ensuring a positive perception of solar energy.

Host Bob Allan from NAVCO welcomes experts Rick Bennett and Scott Wolf from Enviros and members of the Energy Management Association, as they discuss how to bridge the gap between physical assets, data analytics, and integrated systems to achieve building performance management. Whether dealing with new construction or existing facilities, aligning corporate and facility missions is key to success. Learn how this approach enhances energy efficiency, comfort, and safety while avoiding compliance issues and costly fines. This episode is packed with invaluable insights for anyone eager to optimize a building's performance.

Building automation, IoT, Smart Buildings, whichever path is being followed, there are some fundamentals that are frequently passed over. Often overshadowed by the capabilities and benefits of applications and technological advances, the underlying infrastructure—and how it is implemented—can be the key to the long-term success and realization of the anticipated outcomes of a new building or the update of an existing one. Speaking from the perspective of past, present and future infrastructure complexity and requirements, Matthew Bonfitto, chief executive officer of ICAS, a longstanding structured cabling, IoT, IT and telecommunications deployment and management provider, and Allen Proithis, IoT thought leader and chief executive officer of GXC, a leading provider of mesh-based private cellular networks, along with host James Brehm, CEO of James Brehm & Associates, discuss best infrastructure practices as well as offer a glimpse into planning and provisioning for the next wave of technological innovation.

In this episode of the Smarter Homes and Buildings podcast, ASHB is joined by industry experts Marc Petock, Vice President, Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Lynxspring, and Brian Turner, CEO at Buildings IOT. Explore the crucial business drivers behind smart buildings, the impact of electrification and EV charging, and the evolving role of AI in shaping our built environment. Delve into the forces driving innovation and sustainability in intelligent spaces. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of smart buildings.