Blog:
Navigating the future of Smart Buildings

The Smart Building Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work was published on 1 February 2024. It marks a pivotal moment for built environment professionals.

Glider Technology’s Head of Product, John Adams, co-authored the Smart Building Overlay alongside representatives from ScanTech Digital, Kier and Hoare Lea.

Early engagement

John champions early engagement, dialogue and strategic planning to harness the full potential of smart building technology. He explains: “Glider has worked on a number of projects where smart technology has been an afterthought and it’s much harder to adopt later in a project. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders from the start of the project, it can proactively address interoperability issues and leverage integrated User Interface Platforms for seamless operation.”

From lighting to security, smart technologies not only bolster safety measures but also drive energy efficiency and optimise overall building performance. Yet, as the pace of technological innovation accelerates, there lies a challenge: the risk of specified technology becoming outdated before implementation.

A smart building roadmap

Readers of the Smart Building Overlay can use it as a roadmap, coordinating smart building systems across all project stages. By prioritising early involvement of specialists and fostering transparent discussions with stakeholders, they can align technological solutions with project goals and user needs effectively.

This collaborative effort is a collective commitment to advancing smart building technology across new-build, retrofit and refurbishment projects. Through initiatives like the Smart Building Overlay, stakeholders have the knowledge and resources needed to realise the full potential of smart buildings.

The impact of smart building technology extends beyond commercial spaces to domestic projects. Smart home technologies continue to evolve. As do the preferences of homeowners and the increasing demand for integrated solutions must be considered. Whether in commercial or residential settings, the key question remains: How smart do you want your building to be?

Glider is passionate about shaping the future of the built environment. Similarly, in enhancing the way we live and interact with it. With well defined information requirements communicated early in the project, building owners and operators are able to harness the masses of data linked to smart building sensors and technologies. Glider’s software and information management services are perfectly aligned for those on the journey towards smarter buildings. We see the launch of the Smart Overlay as a testament to our collective vision for a more efficient, sustainable and interconnected future.

Download the Smart Building Overlay

Download the RIBA Smart Building Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work

Further reading on the future of smart buildings

Webinar on Demand: From data to intelligence: the role of information management in a smart building strategy