Over the last five years, the terms “smart” or “connected” buildings have been used regularly, but what does that look like in practice? And how does it equate to business results?

Save energy and money, keep people comfortable, increase uptime — these are just a few advantages of connected buildings. You can tap into these results by using the hidden potential in buildings — data.

Tapping into that data has become easier thanks to advancements in building automation and energy analytical tools. Systems — including heating, cooling and lighting — can have controls and monitoring attached to them that pulls data and deciphers it, giving you valuable information and insights. But it can’t stop there. Analyzing the data to understand where improvements can be made helps transform the building into an asset that positively impacts business goals.

To go beyond the data for real results, there are five vital components of a connected building that make the data work for you:

1. The right technology

Smart, flexible sensing technology and equipment allow the collection of data and insight that leads to better control. Through the right equipment and control, a building can be optimized.

2. Integration with building systems

Having new technology for better monitoring and management is most beneficial when those technologies work together. In a connected building, the systems are integrated, so users don’t have to look at multiple programs to get actionable data.

3. Optimization with analytics

Nearly any building can run better, and the path to improvement can be found through analytics. Once connected to data sources, users can look to analytics to see where a building is running well, where things could be better and what to do to make that happen. The most successful systems have customized reports to support specific operational needs.

4. Remote command

Building activities ebb and flow all day and night. Remote access via dashboards and mobile interfaces allows facility managers and building owners to have secure viewing of real-time information and adjustments to better suit peak and off-peak needs. By removing the need for 24/7 on-site personnel for monitoring and adjusting, remote access helps boost productivity, and the adjustments made through it help with efficiency.

5. Access to experts

Buildings are increasingly complex, and access to experts can make sure systems are working their best. Centralized engineering, combined with local design, installation and service expertise, allow support personnel to cater to specific building needs and respond quickly. This is amplified with 24/7 monitoring that helps solve many issues more quickly and efficiently, minimizing the impact on business.

See how one of New York City’s iconic hotel properties, Grand Hyatt New York, put this into action with recently completed upgrades from Trane. The Grand Hyatt New York took new technology and the data it provides, and turned the data into real results.