What is a Building Management System?

A building management system (BMS), or building automation system (BAS), is a computerized control system, consisting of both software and hardware, that can monitor and manage a building's lighting, heating and ventilation, fire systems, and security systems. BMS are most often used in large projects with extensive HVAC, electrical, and mechanical systems, and are a vital component to managing energy consumption.

Building management systems connect the functionalities of individual technical systems and services, including temperature sensors, CO2 sensors, and electrical equipment such as ventilation, air conditioning, fans, and boilers so they can serve as one completely integrated system.

Besides managing a building's internal environment, BMS systems are also associated with a building’s access control, such as turnstiles, and other security controls and monitors, including motion detectors, security cameras, card readers, and closed-circuit television. Elevators and fire prevention and alarm systems can also be linked within the computer-based BMS for monitoring.

BMS can still further include disaster-response mechanisms to save structures from natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes, with solutions like seismic base isolation.

BMS solutions operate with open communication protocols, allowing for system integration across various platforms. BMS systems are also web-enabled, making them readily available from any location. This remote access to BMS components enables easy building management with minimal facilities managers or staffing. These systems provide a multitude of functionalities in a centralized location while managing access for an organization's entire userbase.

The BMS platform integrates various systems for streamlined, real-time management across all linked buildings, performing crucial functionality like alarm supervision, and supporting information sharing across all channels. BMS integration framework enables collaboration across intricate third-party systems including HVAC, lighting, energy, security, fire safety, and all manner of workplace management systems, essentially creating smart buildings that are sustainable, integrated, and highly efficient.

What are the primary business uses for BMS?

Security and access control systems - Several companies in the governmental, commercial, industrial, health, and private sectors use access control security to restrict physical entry to only those with a form of authorization. It could be as simple as entering a PIN, password, or HID card, or as complex as an advanced biometric system utilizing iris or palm scans.
Fire safety - If a fire is detected, a linked BMS could not only alert the proper channels and start a sprinkler system, but could also start smoke evacuation fans, close dampers in the ventilation system to prevent more smoke from spreading, and send every elevator in the building to the ground floor to prevent anyone from using them.
Energy management - A building’s ecosystem runs on energy, from the security system to the HVAC system. Capitalizing on constant and convenient access to integrated building systems can reduce superfluous energy usage and create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly workplace.
Workplace management systems - The demand for insights-based management is increasing across all sectors. From facilities management outsourcing to strategic space planning, and transaction management to performance monitoring, a BMS can leverage digitization and increase operational efficiency.