MEDIA RELEASE
New Research on Intelligent Building Technology Adoption
February 27, 2024 — High initial cost is the top barrier to adopting smart technology for 63% of North American property owners and operators, says new research. This is almost double the second-ranked deterrent of ongoing operational costs (33%). Climate/HVAC control is the most adopted application, with energy efficiency and sustainability driving adoption.
These are just some of the insights uncovered by a comprehensive research project carried out by Harbor Research and funded by members of the Association for Smart Homes & Buildings (ASHB). Titled “Intelligent Building Technology & Market Trends,” the landmark research project surveyed 330 commercial building owners and operators in the US and Canada.
“Our industry is at a critical crossroads,” says ASHB Board Chair Brian Ensign of Superior Essex Communications. “We’re moving beyond basic smart monitoring into automation and the eventual adoption of AI, with climate and HVAC systems driving this evolution. But our report clearly demonstrates the many barriers we must overcome for this to be a smooth progression.”
The research uncovered the perceptions, preferences, and reservations on adopting and using smart building technologies across multiple building types, use cases, and buying behaviors. The results offer vendors clear insight into the prevailing challenges and actionable recommendations on opportunities for addressing barriers to adoption.
“This was a big research project involving multiple surveys and comprehensive analysis,” said ASHB CEO Greg Walker. “The high level of engagement by funders and supporters really shows the interest and need for this kind of buyer insight for smart building vendors.”
The research was funded by ASHB members Belimo, Chicago Faucet Company, Cyber Power Systems, Distech Controls, Dwyer Instruments, EBTRON, Functional Devices, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), CanmetENERGY, Schneider Electric, Siemens Industry, Southwire Company, Superior Essex Communications, and Trane Technologies.
An executive summary is available for download here. The full project is currently only available to the funding organizations but will be available to the public for purchase in the ASHB Shop following a four-month embargo period. Contact Marta Klopotowska, at [email protected] for more information.
The full research project contains raw data, presentations, infographics, and reports including the Annual Building Operator Survey, three Quarterly Market & Technology Trackers, Unlocking the Potential of AI in Buildings: Key Use Cases, Ecosystems and Interoperability in Intelligent Buildings, and Sustainability Investment Trends in Intelligent Buildings.
About ASHB
ASHB is an international not-for-profit industry association dedicated to the advancement of connected home and intelligent building technologies. The organization is supported by an international membership of over 300 organizations involved in designing, manufacturing, installing, and retailing products relating to integrated home and building technology. Public organizations, including utilities and governments, are also members. ASHB’s mandate includes providing its members with networking and market research opportunities. ASHB also encourages the development of industry standards and protocols while leading cross-industry initiatives. More information is available at www.ashb.com.
Media Contacts
Association for Smarter Homes & Buildings (ASHB)
Marta Klopotowska, Manager, Programs and Communication
[email protected]
