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Gone are the days of static plans and manual updates. Today’s AEC teams can make faster, more informed decisions thanks to real-time insights. At ARKANCE, we help customers harness this power through IoT strategies tailored to their business needs - so they can build efficiently, operate intelligently, and move forward with confidence.
Understanding smart buildings in the AEC sector
Smart buildings respond to their environment using a network of connected sensors-from motion and light to air quality and temperature. These systems help buildings adapt in real time, improving comfort, sustainability, and performance behind the scenes.
Smart buildings don’t just monitor conditions -they act on them. By leveraging real-time data from IoT systems, facilities can optimize operations continuously, supporting both cost control and sustainability goals without manual input.
How IoT supports automation across AEC workflows
From design through delivery and beyond, IoT enables smarter project execution. Here’s how it supports each phase:
Smarter design and planning
Integrating live data into Building Information Modeling (BIM) helps teams simulate building performance more accurately. Insights from digital twins-kept current via IoT sensors-allow project teams to fine-tune layouts, choose better materials, and plan for future maintenance before construction begins.
This not only improves the quality of outcomes but also strengthens resilience and reduces risk.
Improved construction site efficiency
On the jobsite, IoT transforms coordination and control. Smart sensors and connected wearables provide live insights into equipment usage, workforce location, and material flow - allowing managers to respond quickly, minimize downtime, and boost site safety.
A real-world example comes from NGE’s N141 bypass project, where ARKANCE’s Be.Smart solutions enabled the team to streamline logistics and improve site performance. By consolidating data across sources, the project team was able to make faster, better-informed decisions throughout construction.
In an industry where cost overruns impact 90% of projects, IoT-powered workflows offer the visibility and agility needed to stay on schedule and within budget.
Intelligent Building Operations
Smart buildings continue learning after completion. IoT systems enable ongoing monitoring of energy use, equipment health, and space utilization. Predictive maintenance reduces downtime, extends asset life, and simplifies day-to-day operations.
The result? Buildings that remain high-performing, efficient, and easier to manage long after the ribbon is cut.
Key benefits for AEC and building owners
IoT in AEC automation brings measurable value across every phase of the building lifecycle:
Energy and cost reduction
Smart buildings operate only when needed, significantly cutting power consumption, emissions, and utility costs-across both construction and operational phases.
Improved building performance
With automated adjustments based on occupancy or environmental conditions, IoT enables stable, responsive operations. Predictive maintenance further reduces unplanned downtime and faults.
Support for ESG goals
Smart buildings provide accurate tracking of energy, emissions, and air quality. This helps teams stay aligned with sustainability goals and regulatory requirements-while demonstrating transparent ESG progress to stakeholders.
Data for better decisions
IoT reveals how spaces are actually used. This allows AEC professionals to optimize layouts, fine-tune building operations, and make investment decisions based on live performance insights-not guesswork.
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Common challenges in adopting IoT
Despite its advantages, IoT adoption still presents hurdles for many AEC teams:
Cybersecurity is a top concern as connected systems become more prevalent. Standards such as ISO 19650 and CDE security mandates are now in place across EMEA, APAC, the UK, and the US.
Data interpretation can be overwhelming. Without strong reporting tools or frameworks, the sheer volume of information may create uncertainty instead of clarity.
Skills gaps remain a challenge as teams adjust to live data environments and move away from static reporting.
ARKANCE has the largest industry-led pool of engineering, consulting and development experts dedicated to supporting digital transformation for AEC and manufacturing companies
How ARKANCE can support your business
Digital transformation isn’t one-size-fits-all—and neither is our approach. Whether you're exploring the potential of IoT or looking to expand an established digital foundation, ARKANCE supports you at every stage of the journey. We combine deep industry expertise with proven methods to help AEC firms align digital initiatives with operational goals, solve practical challenges, and build lasting resilience.
As Autodesk’s first global Platinum Partner, we deliver connected workflows that integrate seamlessly with leading platforms like Autodesk—through our Be.Smart solutions and beyond. From improving coordination to unlocking real-time decision-making, we ensure your systems deliver measurable impact where it matters most.
Explore how our Professional Services support your roadmap
What comes next for IoT and AEC
IoT’s future in the AEC sector is evolving fast. Technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) are enhancing automation, enabling buildings to respond proactively-not just reactively. Meanwhile, edge computing allows data to be processed directly on-site, improving speed and reliability.
Smart buildings are increasingly part of larger, digitally connected ecosystems. As this landscape expands, AEC professionals will play a pivotal role in designing and delivering the smart cities of tomorrow.
FAQ
What does IoT mean for AEC companies?
The IoT provides AEC companies with a clearer view of what’s happening across their projects. With real-time data, teams can plan with greater accuracy, respond quickly to on-site changes and deliver buildings that run efficiently long after completion.
Put simply, this is a technology that is being rapidly adopted by the most innovative companies in the AEC industry, which is no surprise given the benefits offered by it and the fact that ‘technology’ more generally is a top-2 priority for over 70% of companies.
How much does it cost to add IoT to a building?
Costs can vary depending on the size of the building and the specific functionality you require from the technology. The best way to get an accurate idea is to speak with a professional like ARKANCE, who can design a tailored solution based on your needs and goals.
How much does it cost to add IoT to a building?
Costs can vary depending on the size of the building and the specific functionality you require from the technology. The best way to get an accurate idea is to speak with a professional like ARKANCE, who can design a tailored solution based on your needs and goals.
Is a smart building different from a connected building?
Yes. A connected building gathers data, while a smart building acts on it-automatically adjusting systems like lighting, ventilation, or heating based on real-time conditions.
Let’s Build Smarter Outcomes, Together
Whether you’re just starting your automation journey or scaling an existing solution, ARKANCE is here to help. We offer the guidance, tools, and partnership needed to make IoT adoption not only possible-but impactful.
Reimagining AEC with IoT starts today-with smarter buildings, smarter teams, and smarter results.
Transformation takes a team. We’re your people.