Since the pandemic, businesses are working hard to create new working environments that cater to the needs of their workforce. More and more, ‘hybrid’ working models – where an employee splits their time between the workplace and being remotely based – are becoming the norm. As a result, the requirements for a safe and smart technological infrastructure are growing.

As a part of this new need, the workplace is going through a trend of connectivity. But what does this mean? In essence, businesses are adopting the idea of Smart Buildings where instant data is used to make real-time decisions across a vast array of health and safety aspects, energy management, and the overarching experience of occupants.

Connectivity enhances the work environment
With the Internet of Things (IoT) and Operational Technologies (OT) having such prominence in the modern world, it becomes easier for enterprises to design and execute plans for Smart Buildings. However, it should be noted that a large portion of pressure ultimately falls on the IT team to ensure that connected devices are secure and well managed on the network.

Despite the challenges that may present themselves, a workspace connected via technology can have wide benefits. Some examples of these include:

IoT sensors:
Track employee movement and environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and air pressure to aid management and employers in making the workplace comfortable and safe. Should a fire break out, for example, the IoT sensors will have recorded this rise in temperature (and where) as well as having a record of who is in the building (and where). As well as this, sensors increase security from an access standpoint.

HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) technology:
Monitoring and enhanced control of HVAC guides businesses looking for increased energy efficiency and sustainable practices. Busy, large offices, where staff may work at all hours, for example, can be operate lighting in real-time – turning lights on or maintaining room temperatures where staff are currently working. For unoccupied areas, lights turn off and heating is reduced for fiscal savings and a more eco-friendly approach.

Unifying Smart Building data
A connected workplace clearly has benefits for staff and businesses. However, what happens with the data being recorded by all these different sources? Often, it is being collected in a number of ways in disparate systems and platforms. This makes it much harder to collate and extract critical insight. To truly benefit, businesses need to move beyond connectivity to reimagine IoT and Smart Buildings. Enter Cisco DNA Spaces, a cloud-based software platform for indoor location and IoT services. With Cisco DNA Spaces, organisations can unify all their access network data within one platform environment to provide a vital link between the available information and insights. In doing so, companies achieve better business outcomes by creating a safe, smart, and seamless workplace.

Learn more For more on Cisco DNA Spaces and the growing trend of Smart Buildings, talk to true experts in the field with Excis. The advent of intelligent working spaces can bring huge benefits to your organisation – stay ahead by talking to Excis today.