AlfaTech Big Book: Data Centers

E N G I N E E R I N G S E R V I C E S

INTEGRATED BUILDING MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS (IBMS)

The ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) is creating new possibilities for building owners, product manufacturers and systems integrators, allowing the evolution of intelligent buildings to move at a rapid pace. IoT and analytics can be defined as a large number of data points brought together into a networked environment using one common Internet Protocol (IP) platform, allowing connected devices in a building to exchange and analyze information to optimize building and end-user efficiencies through automated controls. This evolution is how Smart Buildings are taking operational and energy efficiency to the next level through an Integrated Building Management Systems (IBMS) approach. The convergence of information technology (IT) systems that includes any use of computers, storage and networking devices and operational technology (OT), traditionally associated with manufacturing and industrial environments is reshaping how companies embrace IT/OT. Operational technologies seen in commercial office buildings consist of a number of facilities sub-systems including BMS, EMS, lighting controls, shade controls, security systems, conference room schedulers and more. Historically, all of these sub-systems operated independently of each other. Today we are seeing building sub-systems become network- enabled at an increased rate, creating a new generation of intelligent buildings. This transformation is placing new demands on the traditional corporate IT network, as all of these systems must communicate over a converged managed network. OT’s modernization through IT integration brings with it the required consideration of network and information security. Many OT systems were never designed for network security, as a result, the risk of connectivity was

not considered. Security breaches and threats have sharply increased both IT and facilities manager’s concern about allowing these ‘unknown’ devices on the corporate network. The vulnerabilities of OT systems can leave organizations and critical infrastructure at risk of industrial espionage and sabotage. IBMS is a network and applications architecture that enables IT/OT integration between facilities sub-systems through open protocols and open source application program interface (API). The key to successful intelligent buildings is to establish secure integration between sub-systems to enable collective monitoring, reporting, analytics and automation. A successful implementation can reduce cost by optimizing operational and energy efficiencies. These capabilities allow for more strategic space planning and enhance the employee experience and productivity. AlfaTech is uniquely positioned to guide and assist our clients through this complex process. With combined MEP and technology design and consulting services, we understand how to engineer these solutions from both the building facilities systems and the IT network, server and applications perspective. Intelligent Buildings require a close partnership and shared strategic vision between Facilities and IT. Through our experience and technical expertise, AlfaTech continues to guide clients through this evolution, helping them embrace and navigate the complexities of truly integrated building management systems.