How the Internet of Things (IoT) is shaping architecture, design, and construction

Make no mistake about it, the Internet of Things (IoT), commonly referred to as IoT, is changing the construction and design trades. Useful for far more than running your smart home, the IoT in architecture, design, and construction will shape processes and the outcomes as we move into the future.
Before we examine some of the ways that the IoT is changing our field, let’s make sure we are on the same page in terms of the Internet of Things meaning and the terminology surrounding it.

If you are new to the idea of the Internet of Things, it may seem a little complicated. In truth, the backend computer programming that goes into the IoT is a little complicated, however on the user end, you are likely already using an IoT device or two every day.

Wired Magazine explains that “In the broadest sense, the term IoT encompasses everything connected to the internet, but it is increasingly being used to define objects that "talk" to each other. ‘Simply, the Internet of Things is made up of devices — from simple sensors to smartphones and wearables — connected together,’ Matthew Evans, the IoT programme head at techUK, says.”

So your smartphone, your smartwatch, and your digital thermostat are all part of the Internet of Things, meaning that they are all devices that connect to the internet, and through the internet, connect to each other.

If something can be app-driven, like the large format printer in your office, or your video doorbell, it’s an IoT device. Color-changing smart lights? IoT devices. ZDNet says, “An IoT device could be as fluffy as a child's toy or as serious as a driverless truck. Some larger objects may themselves be filled with many smaller IoT components, such as a jet engine that's now filled with thousands of sensors collecting and transmitting data back to make sure it is operating efficiently.”

How is IoT in Architecture and Design Making Life Easier?

There are several ways that Internet of Things devices and connectivity are impacting the building trades. These can include the use of IoT devices in the design process, the utilization of IoT tools in the rendering and engineering processes, and the implementation of IoT technologies on the construction site. While, like everything with the Internet of Things, the use options are truly endless, here are a few key ways the IoT in architecture and design is already making our lives easier.

Construction Site Monitoring

Equipment and Materials tracking

Building Information Modeling

IoT and Green Buildings

App-driven Printing

Conclusion

To summarise, the Internet of Things (IoT) is used to define objects that "talk" to each other. Useful for much more than just turning light switches on and off in your home, IoT in architecture, design, and construction will shape processes and the outcomes as we move into the future.