and so many other things.”
The skill set needed to design
and then blend multiple systems to
function as intended is most valu-
able. Without the proper integration
of open protocol systems, buildings
will remain stuck in decades past,
even despite having the most up-to-
date “smart” systems. Additionally,
engineering firms with a product-ag-
nostic stance and flexible capabili-
ties can best allow the integration to
take precedent over the product. Fa-
cility stakeholders can therefore
achieve the goal of smooth and
proper functionality—all without
being reliant on one brand name,
proprietary system or specialty ser-
vice provider.
Roles of service providers are
continuing to blend as facilities be-
come smarter and more connected.
The blending of these roles further
drives the need for someone that
can “make sense of it all” and bring
the many moving (and traditionally
independent roles) together to work
as one. No longer does only the fa-
cilities manager control the building.
The roles of HVAC service compa-
nies, electricians and facility service
providers are all evolving as well,
with each entity relying on data-
driven, connected systems. In many
cases, facility managers act as the
boots on the ground but don’t nec-
essarily know how to utilize the data
and analytics. Engineering firms with
these technology and analytical ca-
pabilities can help with both pro- ac-
tive and reactive systems
management and optimization.
These firms bring significant
value by analyzing systems data to
Exhibit 1. Top Energy Efficiency Measures
United States
Global 68%
Building controls improvements
55% 65%
Heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning improvements
62% Energy focused behavioral or
educational programs
64% 55%
61% Integration of fire/life safety systems
Centralized building operations center
Integration of security systems
Fire/life safety system improvements
Onsite renewable energy
49% 60%
41% 59%
45% 58%
46% 57%
48% Source: “2018 Energy Efficiency Indicator Survey. United States.” Johnson Controls. 2018.
Opportunity abounds
The market is demanding increased technology capabilities across all facility service
providers, but the landscape of skilled providers as well as the underlying talent base
remains fragmented. Firms that recognize, develop and prioritize expertise in the initial
design of technology systems, system integration and ongoing technical services are
likely to benefit significantly. Capitalizing on this opportunity has greatly benefited early
movers in the industry and may benefit many additional firms as technologies continue
to advance and become further embedded in today’s facilities.
plan for maintenance activities and
direct the boots on the ground to
correct problems as they arise. This
solution relies on technologically so-
phisticated engineers who can de-
sign, internalize and leverage
systems data through remote moni-
toring. As this capability becomes
more widespread, the value that
these outside providers bring to on-
site facility and IT managers will con-
tinue to grow.
What are the skill sets?
The ability to bring fully function-
ing systems, simplicity and action-
able insights to end users requires a
unique blend of skill sets. These skill
sets span the facility life cycle from
initial technology design to integra-
Best People
Best Practices ®
Details @phccnc.com
919.532.0522 Your Business can GROW – When you’re in the KNOW
The North Carolina Construction News — Winter 2018 — 5