The Internet of Things and its use in smart Buildings
In the world of building management systems (BMS) and Smart Buildings, the acronym IoT is everywhere. But what exactly is IoT? IoT, or the Internet of Things, refers to a network of physical objects, sensors, devices and other technologies integrated with software, sensors and other technologies to connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the Internet.
In other words, IoT allows everyday objects—whether thermostats, energy meters, air quality sensors or lighting systems—to "communicate" with each other and with centralised systems via an IoT network. This connectivity opens new opportunities for optimising and automating infrastructure.
What is IoT?
The Internet of Things (IoT) represents an ecosystem where a wide range of physical equipment, from everyday devices to sophisticated industrial machines, are equipped with sensors, software and communication capabilities enabling them to connect to each other and exchange information via the Internet.
Why is IoT transforming our world?
Over the past decade, IoT has emerged as a major technological revolution. The ability to connect everyday equipment (appliances, vehicles, thermal management systems, monitoring devices) to the Internet has paved the way for seamless communication between users, automated processes and smart objects.
The rapid evolution of technologies now enables physical equipment to capture and transmit information almost autonomously. In this interconnected environment, digital platforms can track, analyse and optimise in real time the interactions between connected devices. The boundary between the physical and digital worlds is blurring, creating a productive synergy between these two dimensions.
IoT simplified for building professionals
For building managers, Facility Managers and service-sector companies, IoT goes far beyond simple technology. It is a powerful tool to:
Optimise energy consumption
Thanks to IoT devices such as presence or temperature sensors, it is possible to adjust heating, air conditioning and lighting in real time, generating significant energy savings.
Improve occupant comfort
IoT connected objects can monitor air quality, humidity or noise levels, allowing the environment to be adapted for user well-being.
Facilitate predictive maintenance
By collecting data on equipment status, IoT makes it possible to anticipate failures and optimise interventions, reducing costs and downtime.
Enhance security
Motion sensors, smart cameras and access control systems can be integrated into an IoT infrastructure for more effective monitoring.
How does IoT work in buildings? A concrete example
Imagine a building equipped with light, presence and temperature sensors. These IoT devices continuously collect data on the indoor environment. Via a communication protocol (such as LoRaWAN), this information is sent to a centralised platform. This platform analyses the data and, based on predefined rules (for example, "if no one is detected in the office and it is daylight, turn off the lights and turn down the heating"), sends commands to the building's equipment. This is a perfect example of smart automation.
Problem: the complexity and siloed nature of IoT networks in BMS
While the promise of technology is attractive, the reality on the ground is often complex. Setting up an efficient IoT network in an existing building faces major technological fragmentation. Managers have to juggle multiple networks and equipment that do not communicate with each other.
The main obstacle lies in the diversity of languages: each manufacturer often imposes its own protocol or proprietary data formats. Building a coherent infrastructure becomes a headache where legacy wired protocols (such as Modbus) coexist with recent wireless technologies. The proliferation of isolated devices creates data silos, making overall supervision impossible. Each IoT object adds a layer of complexity to maintenance.
Why is integrating connected devices a technical challenge?
Integrating an IoT connected device into an existing BMS is not simply a matter of placing it on a shelf. An IoT device must be powered, connected, secured and maintained.
To ensure reliable connectivity, the entire chain must be mastered end to end. Many people wonder what this actually requires in terms of IT skills? This is often where the problem lies: building technical teams are not telecom engineers. From the history of connected devices to today, complexity has only increased with the massive arrival of IoT devices on the market.
Wattsense and IoT: simplifying the Internet of Things for everyone
At Wattsense, our mission is to make IoT accessible and simple for all building professionals. We offer solutions that act as a bridge between your existing equipment (BMS) and the latest IoT technologies. Our technology enables you to centralise data from all your equipment and BMS, removing complexity caused by lack of interoperability.
With Wattsense, you benefit from a Plug & Play IoT solution for:
• Collecting and analysing data from all your IoT devices.
• Controlling your equipment remotely.
• Optimising the energy performance of your assets.
• Taking the first step towards BACS compliance thanks to a connectivity tool.
IoT is no longer a futuristic technology, but a concrete reality transforming building management. Wattsense is your partner to fully harness the potential of the Internet of Things and build a smarter, more sustainable future.