Digitization and IoT-Driven Transformation of Smart Buildings

Abstract

The digitization of building management systems (BMS) via the Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming urban infrastructure by improving energy efficiency, sustainability, and operational resilience. In response to increasing energy demands and the necessity for carbon emission reduction, IoT-enabled smart buildings to have emerged as a pivotal technological advancement, incorporating real-time monitoring, automated control, and data-driven decision-making to enhance building performance. This study analyzes the transformation of traditional building control systems into intelligent infrastructures, highlighting the Internet of Things' contribution to optimizing facilities management, predictive maintenance, and efficient energy use. A thorough literature review and case study analysis indicate that IoT-driven automation markedly enhances energy saving, occupant comfort, and cost efficiency, hence advancing sustainable urbanization objectives.
Notwithstanding these advantages, the implementation of IoT in smart buildings encounters obstacles, such as interoperability hurdles, cybersecurity risks, and data privacy issues, requiring comprehensive legislative frameworks and secure design. The successful execution of IoT ecosystems in building automation necessitates compliance with open communication standards, incorporation of AI-driven analytics, and investment in secure cloud-edge computing infrastructures. Moreover, regulatory measures including government incentives, revised building rules, and smart grid integration might expedite IoT-driven modernization of current infrastructures. This study concludes by offering strategic recommendations for policymakers, engineers, and business leaders to facilitate scalable IoT adoption, strengthen cybersecurity resilience, and foster interoperability in smart building environments, thereby ensuring a sustainable, efficient, and intelligent future for the built environment.