Episode 421: Ken Sinclair Shares Why Cloud Native Buildings Are The Future of Smart Buildings

https://www.automatedbuildings.com/I have interviewed Ken Sinclair, the founder and editor of Automated Buildings, many times over the years. Like a fine wine, Ken juts keeps getting better, making this interview my favorite so far.

Automated Buildings is celebrating their 25th anniversary. Over the last 25 years, Ken has worked tirelessly to compile a library that chronicles the history of our industry, and for that, we are all eternally grateful. Rumor has it that Ken will be celebrating this milestone at AHR in Chicago, so let’s be sure to show up and show Ken how much we appreciate him and Jane and all their hard work and their contribution.

Thank you, Ken and Jane!

In Episode 421, Ken shares the latest trends he is seeing, including how Cloud Native Buildings are affording smart building owners new ways to make their buildings smarter.

So get a fresh cup of coffee and enjoy the show.

A special thanks to ABB for sponsoring this week’s show!

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Embracing the Future: Exploring Cloud Native Buildings and Their Impact on the Real Estate Industry

Technology continues to revolutionize the way we live, work, and interact. The real estate industry is no exception to this transformation, and the concept of “Cloud Native Buildings” has emerged as a promising vision for the future of smart and sustainable buildings.In rest of this blog post, let’s delve into what cloud native buildings are, why they matter, and how they could reshape the real estate landscape for the better.

Understanding Cloud Native Buildings:

Cloud native buildings represent a different approach to building design and management, with a focus on harnessing the power of cloud computing and data-driven technologies. Envisioned for the year 2030 and beyond, these buildings aim to maximize efficiency, minimize energy consumption, and enhance occupant experiences through interconnected systems, (or as Ken says in the interview “connected clouds”) and real-time data analysis.

Leveraging Cloud Computing for Efficiency:

At the heart of cloud native buildings lies the utilization of cloud computing. This technology enables seamless data integration and processing, facilitating real-time monitoring and control of building systems. Through cloud-based platforms, building managers can optimize energy usage, monitor equipment performance, and identify areas for improvement with unprecedented accuracy. To get a closer look at ho this all works check out my interview with Kode Labs. Kode is successfully using the cloud for smart building controls implementation.

Data-Driven Decision Making:

In cloud native buildings, data is the driving force behind decision-making processes. Advanced sensors, IoT devices, and smart meters collect a wealth of data on energy consumption, indoor air quality, temperature, and occupant behavior. This data is then analyzed using artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to identify patterns and trends, empowering building owners to make informed decisions and optimize building performance.

Click here to hear my interview with Jeff Kimmel, see how Elipsa.ai is taking data points and using AI templates to fast track everything from preventive maintenance, to ESG reporting.

Enhancing Occupant Comfort and Experience:

Cloud native buildings are not just about energy efficiency; they also prioritize occupant comfort and well-being. The interconnected systems enable personalized environmental settings for each occupant, such as lighting, temperature, and ventilation preferences. Additionally, smart technologies offer seamless access control, room booking systems, and enhanced security, enhancing overall occupant experience.

The Environmental Impact and Cost Savings:

Embracing cloud native buildings can significantly impact the environment positively. By optimizing energy usage and reducing waste, these buildings contribute to lower carbon footprints, aligning with sustainability goals. Moreover, energy-efficient buildings translate into substantial cost savings for building owners and tenants alike, making them more financially viable in the long run.

Transparency and Investor Confidence:

Cloud native buildings provide unprecedented transparency to building owners and investors. Real-time data on building performance, energy consumption, and occupant satisfaction allow for better-informed investment decisions and increased accountability. This transparency fosters investor confidence in the project’s sustainability and performance potential. this can eliminate the fears of Greenwashing and Green Hushing.

Embracing the Transition:

While cloud native buildings promise a bright future for the real estate industry, it is essential to acknowledge the challenges of transitioning to this innovative model. Existing buildings may require significant retrofitting to incorporate the necessary smart technologies and data infrastructure. Additionally, there may be concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity that need to be addressed during implementation.

Collaborative Efforts for the Future:

The realization of cloud native buildings necessitates collaboration among architects, engineers, technology providers, building owners, and regulatory bodies. An ecosystem of partnerships will be crucial to drive innovation, develop standardized protocols, and ensure seamless integration of technologies across different buildings and locations.

Conclusion:

Cloud native buildings represent a compelling vision for the future of smart, sustainable, and efficient structures. By leveraging cloud computing, data-driven technologies, and real-time monitoring, these buildings promise improved occupant experiences, reduced environmental impact, and enhanced financial viability for building owners. While the transition to cloud native buildings may present challenges, the potential benefits for the real estate industry and society as a whole make it a journey worth pursuing. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to innovation, we can pave the way for a greener, smarter, and more connected future of real estate.

Best of all, the members of our Industry and the ControlTrends Community have the skill and know how to implement strategies like Cloud Native Buildings and other proven ways to help building owners tackle the challenges of better occupant experiences, saving energy and sustainability!