In our previous article, we introduced the idea that four components are essential if your objective is to implement a True Open BAS Solutions. Here, we go into detail on the first two components: Industry Standard Protocols and Open Licensing.
INDUSTRY STANDARD PROTOCOLS
The most common Industry Standard Protocols for building automation are BACnet, LON, and Modbus. These are open protocols with broad industry acceptance in the buildings market. All have achieved recognition as a standard for managing communications between devices in a building automation system. Each has certain strengths and weaknesses which we will discuss in a future article. The question here is about why Industry Standard Protocols are essential for a True Open BAS Solution.
The simple answer to our question is these Industry Standard Protocols are in fact open, meaning they are openly available to developers of building technology. Industry Standard Protocols were first established and continue to be updated through a process of public review and approval by industry technical experts.
As open protocols, BACnet, LON, and Modbus all facilitate communication between multiple systems developed by different manufacturers. For example, let’s suppose BAS-ABC and BAS-XYZ from different manufacturers both were developed using BACnet. Because both systems use the same open protocol, they communicate the same way, so they can understand each other. Now these two systems in a building can work together to improve comfort and energy efficiency.
If you want your building systems to work together efficiently and cost effectively, you want to use building technology with open protocols.
An Industry Standard Protocol is just the beginning of the story when it comes to True Open BAS Solutions. The next piece, Open Licensing, ensures a level, competitive playing field and building operations effectiveness.
OPEN LICENSING
Unfortunately, it is an all too common notion that any given software utilizing an open protocol, is open. Afterall, it says open. Well, open protocol refers to the way the software communicates, so calling that open is a true statement. What about licensing of that software which grants access to the software? Open protocol does not mean open licensing. That is up to each BAS manufacturer.
Manufacturers of building technology are rightly careful about system integrators to whom they license their software. Many manufacturers want to be sure a licensee is properly qualified to install and configure the software to the satisfaction of the building operator. This can be called Open Licensing to any system integrator that invests in the training to install, configure and maintain the software in a qualified, responsible manner.
Next some manufacturers only license their software to a select group of authorized installers. This can be referred to as Authorized Licensing. This second layer by manufacturers serves their business purposes but artificially restricts access to their software which does not serve the interests of building operators. Authorized Licensing restricts competition for building services to the few authorized system integrators. In some markets, there may be just one authorized system integrator. For building operators, this scenario leads to challenges with the cost and quality of ongoing support for their BAS.
SO WHAT’S THE WIN FOR BUILDING OWNERS AND MANAGERS?
When building operators choose a building automation solution that includes Open Licensing to the software, they benefit from competition for their business over the long term. Any qualified and properly licensed system integrator can compete for system maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. Building operators win with quality services at fair prices.
That said, it is to the building operator’s benefit to establish a relationship with a best-in-class service provider that is qualified, properly licensed and brings a collaborative approach to working with the building operator. Through collaboration, building operators identify their challenges and expectations, and system integrators share their skill and expertise.
This is the best scenario for a building operator, transcending quality and price. They get a long-term relationship that is built on honesty through competition, and quality through collaboration.
Not all open BAS solutions are built the same. With this discussion of Industry Standard Protocols and Open Licensing, we can see that True Open BAS Solutions really do have significant meaning for building operators. We will wrap up this discussion in our next article about Engineer Tools and Non-proprietary User Interfaces, the final two components of a True Open BAS Solution.
For more information about truly open BAS solutions, refer to our website, https://jms-ibs.com or call JMS at 214-382-4590.
