The building automation industry is abuzz with the idea of “software-eating buildings,” a spin on Marc Andreessen’s famous quote about software-eating the world. But what does “open” truly mean in this context? A recent discussion on Monday Live! explored this complex question, revealing diverse perspectives and sparking a lively debate.
Defining “Open”
The term “open” holds different meanings for different people. In the building automation world, it often conjures up images of open protocols like BACnet and Modbus. However, the software industry has a broader view of “open,” encompassing:
- Open standards and protocols: HTML, SQL, and open APIs.
- Open telemetry: Standardized signals from devices and systems.
- Open data and access: Publicly available datasets and content.
- Open code and development: Open-source software, collaborative tools like GitHub, and open development processes.
- Open ecosystems and governance: Open platforms, architectures, and governance models.
The Importance of “Open”
The panel agreed that “open” is crucial for creating truly open buildings. It enables interoperability, fosters innovation, and empowers building owners. However, achieving true openness requires a holistic approach, embracing all aspects of “open” in the software world.
“The building automation industry is at a crossroads. To truly embrace the potential of “software eating buildings,” we must move beyond traditional notions of “open” and embrace a more holistic approach that encompasses open source, open data, and open governance.”
Challenges and Opportunities
The discussion highlighted several challenges and opportunities related to “open” in building automation:
- OT vs. IT: Bridging the gap between operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) is essential for embracing open software.
- Monetizing software: Finding sustainable business models for open software in the building automation industry remains challenging.
- Owner involvement: Building owners need to actively demand and support open solutions.
- Industry evolution: The industry needs to evolve to become more software-centric.
Key Takeaways
- “Open” encompasses a wide range of concepts in the software world, from open-source code to open data and governance.
- Embracing “open” is crucial for creating truly open buildings and fostering innovation in the building automation industry.
- The industry faces challenges in adopting open software, including bridging the OT/IT gap and finding sustainable business models.
- Building owners have a key role to play in driving the adoption of open solutions.
The journey towards “software-eating buildings” is paved with the bricks of openness. By embracing open standards, protocols, data, and development practices, the building automation industry can unlock new levels of innovation and value for building owners.
Watch the session here:
This article was composed on Monday Live! Session from Nov 11, 2024, with the assistance of Google Gemini AI
