This week’s Monday Live session had a distinctly forward-looking focus as we wrap up 2024 and anticipate the year ahead. With AHR Expo and the ASHRAE Winter Conference looming, the discussion touched on industry events, emerging trends, and some bold predictions for the future of smart buildings. Here are some key takeaways:
AHR Expo and the Smarter Summit:
- Smarter Summit 2025: The third annual Smarter Summit will occur on Sunday, February 9th, in room W105 of the Orlando Convention Center. This year’s focus is on accelerating the adoption of smart building technologies, particularly emphasizing the role of the Linux Foundation and open-source software.
- AHR Expo Floor: Many Monday Live regulars will be exhibiting at AHR, including Lonmark (Booth 1190), Cimetrics and Lynxspring. Attendees can expect to see demos of the IBB (Independent Buildings Bridge), a key initiative from Project Haystack, as well as new product launches and exciting announcements.
- Automated Buildings Education Sessions: This year’s theme is “scaling,” exploring how new technologies can help the industry scale its operations and impact. The sessions will feature many familiar faces from the Monday Live community.
Industry Trends and Predictions for 2025:
- Tariffs and Supply Chain: The potential impact of new tariffs and ongoing supply chain challenges was a major topic of discussion. While some believe tariffs could lead to price increases, others see them as a negotiating tactic with limited impact on the controls industry.
- AI Evolution: The integration of AI, particularly generative AI and large language models is expected to accelerate in 2025, bringing new capabilities and challenges to building automation.
- Cybersecurity: The need for robust cybersecurity measures will remain paramount as threats continue to evolve.
- Open Source Momentum: 2025 could be a tipping point for open-source software in building automation, with growing interest in initiatives like Project Haystack and the IBB.
- Hybrid Work and Building Occupancy: The shift towards hybrid work models and evolving lease dynamics may impact building design and occupancy patterns.
“I view the tariffs as a tool for trade negotiations, not as a mandate… I just don’t think we’re going to get the attention. But automobiles, sure. Some computer components, sure. But controls? Controls, no. I don’t see it.”
Join the Conversation:
Want to stay ahead of the curve in the building automation industry? Join us every Monday at 3 PM Eastern for Monday Live, where we explore the latest trends and challenges with a diverse group of industry experts. Visit MondayLive.org for more information and to access past recordings.
This blog post is based on the December 9th, 2024, Monday Live! discussion and with the assistance of Gemini AI. To listen to the full conversation, visit
2025 event
