The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

Smart Buildings Academy
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The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

Welcome to the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, the world’s largest podcast dedicated to the building automation industry! Join our expert instructors every week as they break down the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in smart buildings. No matter your position in the industry and whether you're a beginner or expert, this podcast delivers the knowledge and strategies you need to learn and stay ahead in the industry. With expert insights, special guest interviews, and real-world training, our episodes are designed to inform, educate, and empower. Many companies even use our podcast as a free training resource for their teams. Subscribe now! Visit us at www.smartbuildingsacademy.com to check out the numerous FREE training resources we offer.

  1. 1D AGO

    SBA 499: The ROI of BAS Training

    If you're leading teams, overseeing projects, or managing budgets in building automation, this episode is for you. Training isn't just a line item. It affects how fast your jobs get done, how often your clients call back, and how long your employees stick around. This conversation challenges how you think about the cost of training by showing what happens when you measure its value the right way. Instead of guessing, you'll learn how to track real numbers, get better results, and build a stronger team. You’ll hear case studies, practical metrics, and a clear process for capturing what training actually delivers. Key topics include: ·       The full cost of training, including what most companies miss ·       How to measure performance gains before and after training ·       Real-world examples showing the business impact of trained teams ·       Metrics that reveal where your time and money go ·       A step-by-step guide to creating your own training ROI tracker Start making your training dollars work harder. Listen in now.

    24 min

  2. JUN 5

    SBA 498: The True Cost of Band-Aid Fixes in Building Operations

    In the latest episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will uncover what lies beneath temporary fixes that may seem harmless but carry significant hidden costs. If you've ever overridden an alarm to stop complaints or zip-tied a damper and walked away, this episode is for you. This conversation examines the operational, financial, and safety impacts of short-term solutions. It also prompts a critical look at what these practices are truly costing your facility. In this episode, you will explore: What qualifies as a "band-aid fix" and why they are widespread The escalating risks created by temporary repairs The financial impact of recurring quick fixes Cultural patterns that support reactive maintenance Practical steps to improve building reliability and performance Listen to rethink what “just keeping it running” means and discover how to shift toward stable and efficient operations.

    26 min

  3. MAY 29

    SBA 497: The Life Cycle of a BAS Project

    Explore the full BAS project lifecycle in this episode, from sales and design to installation and service. This episode is for building automation professionals who want a sharper understanding of how BAS projects develop from concept to ongoing service. Whether you focus on sales, design, installation, or support, this discussion outlines what makes a project succeed at every stage. You will walk through each phase of a BAS project and learn where common pitfalls emerge. The episode offers insight into aligning teams, improving documentation, and supporting system performance after handoff. Key topics include: ·       Finding risks during scope and specification reviews ·       Creating clear and accurate design documentation ·       Managing installation and subcontractor coordination ·       Improving programming and graphics for user clarity ·       Building long-term service and lifecycle maintenance plans Listen to examine your current project practices and identify where improvements can be made.

    31 min

  4. MAY 22

    SBA 496: Revolutionizing HVAC – The Rise of VRF Systems

    Is your HVAC knowledge aligned with today’s smart building demands? This episode explores variable refrigerant flow (VRF) systems and their growing role in building automation. As building complexity increases and energy efficiency becomes a priority, VRF systems offer a different approach that requires new skills and understanding from BAS professionals. If you work in building automation, this conversation will help you see where the industry is heading and what it means for your work. Topics covered: Why VRF systems are gaining widespread adoption How VRF components interact to enable precise zone control Challenges with integration and proprietary communication protocols When VRF is the right choice, and when it’s not How AI and remote monitoring are shaping the future of HVAC Don’t miss this opportunity to sharpen your edge in a changing BAS landscape.

    45 min

  5. MAY 15

    SBA 495: Why Most Building Automation Systems Are Underutilized

    Many building automation systems are operating far below their potential. If you're only using basic features or managing your system with limited insight, you are likely missing out on performance, energy savings, and operational efficiency. This episode focuses on you - the facility manager, the BAS technician, the energy consultant - and how to unlock the full capabilities of your system. You will hear real-world examples that highlight common issues and overlooked opportunities. More importantly, you will gain a new perspective on how to reclaim control and value from your existing system. In this episode, you will explore: What underutilized means in building automation Root causes that limit system performance Overlooked features that can improve efficiency Practical barriers and how to start addressing them Immediate actions to increase system value This episode encourages you to rethink your BAS strategy and start taking steps toward better performance and smarter building management.

    31 min

  6. MAY 8

    SBA 494: How Trained Operators Reduce Energy Costs & Downtime

    This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast focuses on a key factor affecting building performance and operational cost: the building operator. If energy costs remain high despite efficient equipment, or tenant complaints persist after BAS upgrades, the problem may lie in overlooked operational practices. This episode examines how operator actions directly influence energy use, system performance, and downtime. Designed for professionals managing facility systems and operations, the episode highlights what separates underperforming buildings from optimized ones. Topics include: The impact of trained operators on building efficiency and cost savings Core skills operators need beyond system knowledge The role of alarms, overrides, and scheduling in energy waste Common gaps in trend analysis and setpoint management Approaches to developing operator skills and accountability If your building still is not performing the way it should, this episode will help you start asking the right questions.

    32 min

  7. MAY 1

    SBA 493: Instructor Roundtable

    This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast focuses on critical discussions that directly impact building automation professionals. Instructors Matt Scott, Ethan Morris, and Michael Roper explore the evolving relationship between BAS professionals and IT departments, common pitfalls in BAS specifications, and the practical value of trend logging. The conversation is centered on real-world challenges and strategies for success in modern building projects. The team shares insights based on field experiences, addressing issues that affect system performance, project timelines, and professional collaboration. This episode highlights actionable points for building automation professionals committed to delivering better outcomes. Key Topics Covered: The current state of collaboration between BAS teams and IT departments Why BAS devices are increasingly treated as IT assets Risks of not coordinating with IT during BAS deployments and how to avoid project delays Specification mistakes seen in BAS projects and professional ways to offer feedback The role of trend logs in troubleshooting, compliance, and performance improvement This episode will help you strengthen your BAS practices and stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.

    35 min

  8. APR 24

    SBA 492: Breaking Down ASHRAE 62.1

    Good air is about performance, health, and operational excellence. This episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast explores the critical role that ASHRAE 62.1 plays in creating environments where people can thrive. Controls technicians, facilities managers, commissioning agents, and mechanical designers will benefit from understanding this essential ventilation standard. Building professionals often recognize the importance of indoor air quality but may struggle to achieve it consistently. This episode highlights why simply moving air is not enough and what it takes to deliver clean, safe, and effective ventilation tailored to every space. The discussion provides a deeper appreciation for the nuances of air quality standards and their impact throughout the building lifecycle. Key Topics Explored: The meaning of ventilation and why airflow alone is insufficient How ASHRAE 62.1 sets minimum requirements for indoor air quality in commercial buildings The differences between the three approved ventilation methods and when to apply each The importance of commissioning and maintenance in sustaining healthy air environments How improper system installation and neglect can compromise even well-designed projects ASHRAE 62.1 ensures that buildings protect the health of occupants. Listen to Episode 492 to gain critical insights that can strengthen your projects and professional expertise.

    25 min
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4.8
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96 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, the world’s largest podcast dedicated to the building automation industry! Join our expert instructors every week as they break down the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in smart buildings. No matter your position in the industry and whether you're a beginner or expert, this podcast delivers the knowledge and strategies you need to learn and stay ahead in the industry. With expert insights, special guest interviews, and real-world training, our episodes are designed to inform, educate, and empower. Many companies even use our podcast as a free training resource for their teams. Subscribe now! Visit us at www.smartbuildingsacademy.com to check out the numerous FREE training resources we offer.

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