Integrated building systems: strengthening building security while decreasing operating costs

Purpose – This paper details the benefits that integrated systems offer facility managers and owners who seek to improve security – and overall building performance – despite limited resources. And it provides a general roadmap for making integration a reality. Design/methodology/approach – Combining real‐life examples with general industry knowledge, this paper examines how facility managers and owners can integrate technology like surveillance cameras, access control readers and smart card technology to improve security and the company's bottom line. Additionally, it explains organizational steps needed to successfully integrate these technologies, and tie them into core building functions and enterprise systems. Findings – There is innovative technology emerging in the security market that offers significant improvements for facilities and security managers, as well as end users. But the real power lies within managing these technologies as part of an integrated security and building solution. With an integrated system, silos are eliminated, information is shared between departments and important building functions can be centralized – increasing safety and improving efficiency. Practical implications – An informative paper that gives facility managers and owners a general understanding of integration and its associated benefits, and the necessary elements to make it happen. Originality/value – While the concept of integration is not new, institutional practices often prevent companies from implementing and taking advantage of an integrated system. This paper goes beyond explaining the general features and benefits of integration, and informs the reader how to assess organizational needs and successfully make the transition.