converged network infrastructure
27
– digital data centre operations
are directly linked to improvements
in sustainability –
This converged approach means that all of a building’s systems – from
communications and security to AV and digital signage – can be deployed
and managed by one central supplier or master systems integrator. This is a
crucial step to simplify processes, reduce complexity, ensure interoperability
and increase speed of deployment – to make the full potential of IP
networks a reality.
Everyone wins with converged infrastructure
The benefits of a converged approach can be delivered throughout the
whole lifecycle of the building.
During the construction and fit out, a converged technology deployment
can give main contractors one central point of accountability to de-risk
projects, keeping sites safe, secure and running efficiently. And, of course,
having one unified technology deployment means that multi-system
interoperability can be guaranteed, and scope gaps eliminated.
Once the building is occupied, having a truly converged IP backbone to
the building doesn’t just greatly increase process efficiency, but it gives
access to a far richer pool of data than would be otherwise possible. This
goes far beyond what is possible with a traditional BMS.
More than simply lights switching off as a room is vacated, joined-up IPbased
solutions provide the backbone of connectivity that collects data from
cameras, sensors, motors, robotics and more.
This exponential increase in information is extremely powerful –
allowing cross-referenced insights from multiple sources that empowers
predictive maintenance, optimised use of space and resources, and hyperpersonalised
services.
And once you have the data to enable this personalisation then the whole
experience of the building can be made more attractive to its occupants
through more flexible work spaces and smart automation.
These are just a few examples, but while switching to a converged
deployment model may seem like a relatively minor change, it shows that
the move can have significant additional benefits.
Making buildings fit for the future
Ultimately, the IP platform is central to the future of the ‘smart building’.
Without that platform to provide the data you need to maximise health,
well-being and security, buildings will never be truly smart. But we cannot
ignore the more operational side of the issue too.
This has been emphasised with the current pandemic. The crisis has
rapidly accelerated changes to working practices that were already well
underway. However, rather than limit investments in the corporate office,
I believe that the situation has served to amplify the business case for
more smart buildings systems and a better approach to the technology
infrastructure of workplaces.
Technology needs to be at the heart of the building design process for
the workplace, not an afterthought. Now, in a world where flexibility is
king, more intelligent and joined-up tech infrastructure is essential, not a
nice to have. Traditional, siloed network infrastructure deployment and
management is no longer fit for purpose.
So, regardless of how buildings and the support requirements evolve in the
coming years, the intelligent convergence of building management and IT
systems will be vital to enabling the digitised buildings of the future to reach
their full potential, reduce operating costs, drive sustainability, and optimise
the occupant experience. n
www.networkseuropemagazine.com