What Is Operational Intelligence?

Operational intelligence (OI) involves continuously monitoring systems, collecting data from multiple sources, and analysing it to provide actionable insights. In many cases, these actionable insights will trigger the improvements automatically. In building management, these systems include data from HVAC systems, lighting, energy meters, sensors, and IoT devices.

These actionable insights bring value, they save time, energy, and resources. By identifying patterns, anomalies, and inefficiencies, operational intelligence helps building managers make decisions that are both immediate and impactful. These decisions lead to more sustainable, healthier and more valuable assets for owners and occupiers.

Why Adopt Operational Intelligence for Buildings

Real-Time Insights for Efficiency

Traditional building management systems rely on static schedules or manual interventions, often resulting in inefficiencies. Operational intelligence transforms this approach by enabling real-time decision-making. Whether it’s adjusting heating and cooling based on occupancy patterns or dimming lights in unoccupied areas, OI ensures resources are used where and when they’re needed. By capturing more sensing and information inputs, we have the data to make better decisions on how we control a property.

Proactive Maintenance

Maintenance has historically been reactive—problems are fixed after they occur. Ask yourself, how often have you had the same piece of equipment checked routinely over and over when there is no problem with it, just in case the equipment has started to fail without you knowing? With OI, building systems can be monitored for early signs of wear or failure. Predictive analytics can notify teams of potential issues before they cause downtime, reducing costs and enhancing system reliability.

Sustainability and Energy Management

Buildings are major contributors to global energy consumption. Operational intelligence enables smarter energy management by tracking usage in real-time and pinpointing wasteful practices. Through the adoption of Machine Learning and AI, we can provide optimised control of a building’s HVAC system, ensuring it maintains the perfect temperature while utilising the optimal amount of energy.

Enhanced Occupant Experience

A building isn’t just a structure; it’s a space where people live, work, and interact. OI-driven systems can adjust temperature, lighting, and air quality to enhance comfort and productivity. Tailored to the needs of occupants in real-time, the space can become healthier and more comfortable.

Data-Driven Decision Making

With operational intelligence, building managers gain access to a wealth of data presented through visual dashboards and detailed analytics. This data empowers decision-makers to allocate resources effectively, justify investments, and continuously improve building performance. These dashboards are often created and customised to the building’s needs. Data is nothing without context, and having the right domain insight when developing these user interfaces is where added value is created.

Use Cases of Operational Intelligence in Buildings

Smart HVAC Systems: Adjust heating and cooling based on room occupancy or outdoor weather conditions, saving energy and improving comfort.
Lighting Automation: Use motion sensors and daylight tracking to control lighting, ensuring no energy is wasted.
Water Management: Monitor water usage and detect leaks in real-time, reducing waste and ensuring sustainability.
Security Enhancements: Integrate OI with building access systems to track movement and enhance security protocols.
Integration with Building Management Systems (BMS): Combine OI with existing systems for a seamless, automated experience.

The Road Ahead

Sometimes making a start is the hardest part. We all want the smartest and most sustainable buildings; however, it’s not always practical to upgrade our buildings instantly from day one. Through developing a detailed roadmap and identifying a pathway to achieve your property goals, this cutting-edge OI approach can be adopted by any building.

By starting small and scaling incrementally, operational intelligence can begin delivering the performance of a smart and sustainable building while utilizing a low-risk approach. The journey to smarter, more efficient buildings is not about perfection from day one but about taking thoughtful, meaningful steps toward a brighter future.

Ready to Embrace Operational Intelligence?

Discover how operational intelligence can transform your building into a smart, efficient, and sustainable space. Get in touch to learn more about the tools and technologies driving the future of building management.

Disclaimer: The content within is the opinion of the author and engineering team of Operational Intelligence.