You’re in charge of your facility’s automation system. How can you make it work better?

1 Assess your current situation

Before you can improve your BAS, you need to know what you have, how it works, and what problems or gaps exist. Conduct a thorough audit of your existing BAS, including the hardware, software, sensors, controllers, networks, and interfaces. Identify the age, condition, performance, and compatibility of each component. Document any issues, such as malfunctions, errors, inefficiencies, or security risks. Also, review your contracts and warranties with your BAS vendors and service providers. This will help you plan your upgrades, repairs, or replacements.

3 Upgrade your hardware and software

One of the most effective ways to make your BAS work better is to upgrade your hardware and software to the latest technology. This can help you improve your system's functionality, reliability, security, and interoperability. For example, you can replace outdated or faulty devices with smart sensors, actuators, and controllers that can communicate and adjust automatically. You can also update your software to the latest version or switch to a cloud-based platform that can offer more features, flexibility, and scalability.

4 Integrate your systems and data

Another way to optimize your BAS is to integrate your systems and data across your facility and beyond. This can help you create a more holistic and intelligent view of your building's performance and operations. For example, you can connect your HVAC, lighting, security, fire, and access systems to a central dashboard that can monitor and control them remotely. You can also integrate your BAS with other systems, such as energy management, asset management, or maintenance management, to share data and automate workflows.

5 Train your staff and users

A BAS is only as good as the people who use it. Therefore, you need to train your staff and users on how to operate and maintain your BAS effectively and efficiently. This can help you avoid errors, misuse, or abuse that can compromise your system's performance and security. For example, you can provide manuals, tutorials, or workshops on how to use the BAS interface, adjust the settings, troubleshoot problems, or report incidents. You can also educate your users on the benefits and best practices of using the BAS, such as energy conservation, comfort optimization, or safety enhancement.

6 Review and improve your processes

Finally, you need to review and improve your processes and policies related to your BAS. This can help you ensure that your system is aligned with your facility's needs, goals, and standards. For example, you can review and update your BAS operation and maintenance plan, schedule, and budget. You can also review and improve your BAS security and compliance policies, procedures, and protocols. You can also solicit feedback and suggestions from your staff and users on how to improve your BAS and its outcomes.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?