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The Internet of Things (IoT) has dramatically altered the landscape of many industries, and facilities management is no exception. Moving facilities management to the cloud results in considerable money and time savings for the typical property owner.
Cloud utility data gives managers an instantly accessible real-time picture of energy, water, and gas consumption in one property or even a group of properties. The potential of cloud applications for facilities management is huge.
Reduced Installation Time
Despite the overwhelming evidence in support of smart energy management systems, some managers have been slow to adopt cloud applications. Often, an obstacle to adoption is the perception that implementing a cloud-enabled system will be more costly than limping along with legacy systems. Is this really true, though? The evidence suggests that it is not.
Unlike systems in the past that required months to install and bring up to speed, cloud technology can be enabled in a short period of time. Some networks can be installed and running in only a few hours or days. This, in itself, generates a savings, by reducing the cost of IT specialists and installation by a considerable amount.
Reduced IT Burden
Once a sensor network is in place, the burden for the IT team is greatly reduced. SaaS applications have significant advantages for IT personnel. The software is always updated to the latest version. Additionally, the software is continually maintained and supported, making the entire system more secure and applying all necessary security patches and updates automatically.
Improved Value Assessment
Because smart systems are implemented so rapidly, it is easy for property managers to quickly see the value of Cloud applications. Rather than having to wait for months or years to determine the true value of the system, managers can almost immediately see the impact of real-time data capture.
Reduced Training Time
Once the new system is installed, training can be done within a short time. Unlike legacy CAD systems, training need not be an extensive, time-intensive affair. Since most web-based facilities management software operates in a similar way to other web applications already familiar to most employees, training can usually be done quickly and painlessly.
Greater Scalability
A distinct advantage to moving management of your properties to the cloud is the scalability of cloud systems. Where once you may have had to add data loggers or additional metering systems to an existing physical network, with cloud applications, expansion is as easy as adding small sensors to your system.
No complicated wiring needs to be scheduled, and sensors can be added or deleted as your needs evolve. Virtually alleviating the burden of additional equipment purchase as your operation expands, you can realize significant, long-term savings.
Stronger Focus on Actual Management
With much of the work of maintaining the software done by the SaaS provider, instead of your management team, it is possible for your team to use time more wisely and focus on the real goal of facilities management initiatives— to maximize efficiency and keep things running smoothly.
Because smart metering systems can be configured to capture valuable data regarding consumption of energy, water, gas, and air quality, management teams can easily see where problems exist. Armed with this real-time data, managers can act quickly to correct problems, improve efficiencies, and save considerable money in the process.
The Bottom Line
Facilities management is no longer shackled by outdated legacy systems. Now, with the advent of Cloud technology, more and more property owners are realizing the potential for savings, of both time and money, with internet-enabled systems. Low initial capital expenditure and potentially high return on investment make SaaS solutions an attractive option for facilities management today.
If you would like more information about Senseware, a technology platform that acquires, aggregates, and streams data from any sensor, meter, or device, please contact us today. We will help you get a better handle on the performance and operations of your facilities with our state-of-the-art solution.
