Can IoT deliver real transformational benefits in a CRE Contracted Market.
The commercial real estate (CRE) sector is experiencing a sustained contraction, resulting in a decrease in the demand for office space, retail space, and other types of commercial property. Many businesses have been forced to close or reduce their operations, leading to a decrease in the need for office space. Additionally, the rise of remote work has made it possible for many employees to work from home, further reducing the demand for office space. Whilst there has been a call from many of the larger corporations to get employees back to the office, this tends to be for one or two days a week, rather than full-time.
Many businesses are now opting for smaller, more flexible workspaces, and some are even moving away from traditional office spaces altogether, providing better quality and much more employee-centric environments. Wellbeing and job satisfaction are more important than ever. Staff and contractors work more effectively in a healthier environment, one that is tuned to their needs, delivering transformational technologies for people, places & organisations … Delivering the future ... SMART PLACES
The Internet of Things (IoT) has the potential to revolutionise the workplace, including employee well-being. IoT devices can collect data on a wide range of factors, such as air quality, temperature, humidity, noise levels, and employee activity. This data can then be used to create a more comfortable, productive, and healthy work environment.
How IoT can be used to improve wellbeing in the office:
- Air quality monitoring: IoT sensors can be used to monitor air quality levels in the office, including levels of pollutants such as carbon dioxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds. This information can then be used to adjust the HVAC system to improve air quality and create a healthier working environment.
- Temperature and humidity control: IoT sensors can also be used to monitor temperature and humidity levels in the office. This information can then be used to adjust the HVAC system to create a more comfortable working environment. Studies have shown that temperature and humidity can have a significant impact on employee productivity and well-being.
- Noise level monitoring: IoT sensors can also be used to monitor noise levels in the office. Excessive noise can be a major distraction and can lead to stress and fatigue. IoT data can be used to identify areas where noise levels are too high and to take steps to reduce noise levels, such as installing soundproofing materials or moving noisy equipment to a less populated area.
- Smart Lighting: Lighting is often over-specified, and spaces are over-lit, causing issues beyond the waste of energy. Over-lit spaces can often result in uncomfortable glare on computer screens, and like under-lit spaces, can impact health, wellbeing, and productivity.
In addition to improving wellness, IoT can also be used to reduce costs and improve efficiency in the workplace. For example, IoT sensors can be used to monitor energy consumption and to adjust HVAC and lighting systems to save energy. IoT can also be used to automate tasks such as meeting room scheduling and asset tracking.
Overall, IoT has the potential to make the workplace a more comfortable, productive, and healthy place for employees.
Additional benefits of using IoT:
- Reduced absenteeism and healthcare costs: Employees who are healthier are less likely to take sick days and are less likely to incur high healthcare costs. This can save employers money in the long run.
- Increased employee engagement and satisfaction: Employees who are happy and healthy are more likely to be engaged and productive at work. IoT can help to create a more positive work environment by providing employees with the tools and resources they need to stay healthy and well-being.
- Improved company culture: A company that values employee wellness is more likely to attract and retain top talent. IoT can help companies demonstrate their commitment to employee wellness and create a more positive and supportive work culture.
As IoT technology continues to develop and become more affordable, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to use IoT to improve wellbeing in the office, and dnEnviro and the Smart Places Consortium will be at the forefront of that transformation.