Technology + Built Environment
It’s a question that keeps coming up: Where does the smart building designer sit in a multidisciplinary design team? The answer has been different every time, depending on the project, the people, and how “smart” the client really wants the building to be. The thing is, smart touches every part of a design —architecture (where the sensor […]
Matthew Marson expresses concern about the proliferation of hyper-specific certifications in the smart buildings industry, arguing they complicate the design process and increase costs. He suggests the industry should adopt broader qualifications like Engineering Charterships for better professionalism. Marson also questions the effectiveness of certifications like SmartScore AP, advocating for more comprehensive education pathways.
In his column, Dr. Marson addresses the smart building industry’s culture of secrecy, which hinders collective innovation and learning. He argues that sharing project successes is crucial for advancing the industry, fostering collaboration, and establishing benchmarks. Marson advocates for a shift towards openness, suggesting that collective wisdom and shared achievements would catalyze faster progress and forge a more interconnected, dynamic sector.
In the June 2023 column, Matthew Marson reflects on the lack of meaningful progress in PropTech conferences, emphasizing the need for genuine insights and practical learnings. Despite disappointment, he notes a prevailing optimism for technology in the industry. He encourages speakers to consider audience engagement and niche perspectives for more impactful conference experiences.
Matthew was recently featured as one of Building Magazine’s Digital Champions: https://www.building.co.uk/focus/introducing-buildings-digital-champions-you-have-just-got-to-be-brave/5100690.article#Katya_Valeva__BIM_strategy_consultant_Archilizer_not_pictured_in_group_photographs Matthew Marson, Head of Smart Places, WSP What do you do? I help our clients understand how they can get technology into the built environment. What’s holding construction back in the digital sphere? Why is it that Uber was so successful in the 12 months from […]