Equipment selection factors of integrated building management systems (IBMSs) in Sri Lanka

Abstract

Management of facilities has become a complex task involving multitudes of disciplines. With increased awareness for efficient building operation, building owners and operators are looking for means to reduce the operational cost and to ensure the proper functionality of buildings and building services. To manage an organisation in an effective and cost-efficient way, these systems can be integrated into a single interface control solution called Integrated / Intelligent Building Management System (IBMS). Hence, in an intelligent building, IBMS acts as a complete information delivery system that monitors and controls a variety of mechanical and electrical systems and equipment such as such as lighting, Closed Circuit Television (CCTV), access control, fire detection, air conditioning, water management, elevator management, cark park management, etc. at an optimal level of efficiency. However, building systems and the equipment for the IBMSs should be carefully selected as those components have major contribution towards the overall performance of an IBMS. Hence, this research was carried out with the aim of investigating the factors that should be considered in selecting systems and equipment for IBMSs. A comprehensive literature survey, a preliminary survey and case study method was adopted to achieve the aim of the research. The required data were collected through semi structured interviews conducted among IBMS contractors of selected cases. The collected data were analysed, using code based content analysis. According to the findings, ‘higher efficiency’, ‘cost, ‘improved safety’ and ‘enhanced reliability’ are the four major factors that should be considered in system and equipment selection. With the high demand and awareness of IBMS, it is fast becoming a part of facilities management and operational strategy in the organisations. Therefore, the careful consideration of above selection factors in designing would ensure the maximum performance of the IBMS.