Integrate Technological Tools

by the WBDG Productive Committee

Last updated: 05-05-2008

Overview

Integration of information technology and building architecture calls for a robust, global, and secure infrastructure that will support the growing and evolving demands of business and government in the 21st century.

To stay in business, organizations have to stay current, purchasing the appropriate server, database, media, router, and other technologies that sustain their work. They must leverage these evolving information technologies to match the specifications of their stakeholders.

Interoperability across building systems—including power, HVAC, lighting, security, and fire alarm—should enable whole building control and performance optimization. Assuring flexibility to accommodate the dynamic nature of telecommunications systems starts first and foremost with properly designed pathways and spaces.

Demands on the building's data pathways will be heavy, and the market will be strong for high performing buildings having:

Recommendations

Provide Distributed Data, Power, Security, Voice, Video, and Environmental Services for Central Communications and Continuity of Operations

Screenshot of desktop video conferencing

Desktop video conferencing
(Courtesy of MDL Corp.)

Design Accessible, Modifiable, Vertical Power and Telecom Cores

Employ Distributed Modular Cabinets with Plug and Play Interfaces

Provide Re-Configurable Plenum Systems

Photo of an under floor air distribution system installed in a renovated facility.

Under floor air distribution system installed in a renovated facility.

Design Kit-of-Parts for Efficient, Modifiable Services

Select IT System and Components for Energy and Material Conservation

Drawing of a mobile office for the intelligent workplace

Mobile office for the intelligent workplace—well-applied technology can ensure a leap in both technical and environmental quality, enabling every worker to have the very best in environmental conditions.
(Courtesy of Center for Building Performance & Diagnostics, Carnegie-Mellon University)

Relevant Codes and Standards

Major Resources

WBDG

Building / Space Types

Applicable to all building types and space types, especially those regularly occupied or visited.

Project Management

Building Commissioning

Tools

Building Life-Cycle Cost (BLCC), LEED® Version 2.1 Credit / WBDG Resource Page Matrix, LEED®-DoD Antiterrorism Standards Tool, Life-Cycle Cost in Design (LCCID)

Trade Shows

Publications

WBDG Services Construction Criteria Base