INTRODUCTION
This research into Integrated Building Management Systems (IBMS) is the most comprehensive analysis of its kind yet published in the U.K. IBMS is a complex subject and one that is not easy to handle for it does not yet have a set of “norms” with regard to structure, relationships and practices. It has therefore been necessary to set out a clear definition of the subject and then building on this structure carry out a detailed analysis so that all those involved in IBMS can assess their position and properly define their future strategies. This study clearly shows that the integration of building services controls into one system is both logical and cost effective. However, these simple truths have been negated by the human factor. For integration to maximise its benefits it requires a total solution approach and this can only happen if radical structural changes take place in the way buildings are designed, constructed and operated. IBMS has met with only moderate success because of this resistance to change and the lack of a clear strategy to overcome the problem. However, the first phase of the development of IBMS is now coming to an end as some suppliers have seen that harmonisation of product design not only dramatically improves the usefulness of IBMS but brings with it the benefits of large scale production which is a vital competitive edge in the production of electronics.
MARKET OVERVIEW
IBMS is presently in an interim phase of
development, one of essentially working within the context of
joining together products that have not been developed with the
concept of integration in mind. Harmonisation of product design
in sensing and control across the full spectrum of services
functions is gradually being adopted by major companies. This
will have enormous implications for the whole of the building
service controls market, for through it the benefits of large
scale production will both dramatically reduce hardware
manufacturing cost and enhance the capability of IBMS. Looking
further into the future, common communication standards bringing
about compatibility between the different manufacturers products
would further extend these benefits and transform the whole of
the control business. The future of IBMS is assured because it is
built on a firm foundation; it is a logical progression in the
development of building services controls and it meets the needs
of a growing band of discerning building owners for efficient,
flexible redundant-proof buildings. The business is taking much
longer to develop because both on the demand and supply side
companies are only now properly organised to deliver and accept
it. Legislation has also been an obstacle to progress in some
areas but the major problem has been the supply structure which
has traditionally been arranged on the basis of professional
disciplines with strict demarcation lines. Integration by its
very nature must encompass the whole and naturally there has been
resistance to change.
The market for Building Services Control Products is now in excess of £875.0 million and IBMS sales at £51.0 million only accounts for 6%. The simple truth that IBMS is the logical way forward has been largely negated by the “human factor” but gradually the obstacles to progress are being overcome and we conservatively expect growth to double and by 1994 sales to have reached £117 million. There is much to be done by all the professional bodies involved in the Building Controls Industry to smooth the path of IBMS. If progress is not made the opportunity for U.K. companies to participate in IBMS will be lost and worst still it will ultimately mean an erosion of their present markets.
Our definition of Integrated Building Management Systems (IBMS) are control systems that intergrate two or more different building services controls under one contract.
For more information please contact us at proplan@iandi.ltd.uk