The going green at home movement has been covered extensively, but what about at the office? While there are lots of articles about smart thermostats and doorbells for your home, what concepts and ideas are being discussed about saving you and your company money at the office?
First, let’s understand the Internet of Things (IoT). Yes, this is from Wikipedia, but the definition is still useful and succinct:
"IoT involves extending internet connectivity beyond standard devices, such as desktops, laptops, smartphones and tablets, to any range of traditionally dumb or non-internet-enabled physical devices and everyday objects."
Make everything smart
The idea is to control your office through the internet. Sure, you can tell everyone to turn off the lights when they leave a room, but how many employees simply forget to do so?
If you go to a modern self-storage facility, you’ll notice that the hallway lights only go on when motion has been detected; they go off after a timed period. The same is true for supermarket freezer cases as the lights go on when a glass door is opened, and they turn off soon afterward.
The lights in both of these examples are controlled by smart systems and devices.
There are also systems that change light hues according to time of day and outdoor conditions, and these can lead to increased productivity.
Plants, too
Paying that plant service $150 per month to water your office greenery? Quit using them and install a smart watering system that will automatically ensure that your plants get their optimal water supply.
Recycle everything
Find out how to reuse gray water. Set your freezer to make ice during off hours instead of during peak electric times. Partner with a smart recycling company to handle all of your food waste.
Smart security
Why pay for a 24-hour security guard when you can monitor your office from your smartphone?
Sophisticated systems will notify you when motion has been detected, like a late-hour delivery being attempted when no one is in your office. You’ll also be able to communicate directly with the delivery person.
Smart door locks
One legal office we know has to ask their landlord for a mechanical key card every time an employee leaves. Replace this antiquated system with a smart lock that can be opened with a code.
When an employee leaves or is terminated, simply change the code. Every employee can be set up with a unique code, and you’ll also instantly know who is at work and when they arrived.
Phone control
While a security guard may still be necessary to escort terminated employees from the office, more companies are using smart tech that, with one click, instantly cuts off access to programs, platforms, phones and even cellphones.
Smart home technology is rapidly evolving, and it is taking smart office tech with it to the tune of big savings and convenience.
Whether your business is headquartered in a smaller city like Cincinnati, where residential and commercial rent prices fall in your favor; or you’re leasing an office in a very expensive city like Chicago, the first step is to analyze your business and look for everything that can be remotely and smartly controlled which will bring great convenience and money saving opportunity. IoT-based devices are the future, but smart companies are utilizing them now.
