Windhof-based vyzVoice developed Chorus, a secure, cloud-based IoT platform. Chorus for Commercial Buildings is an end-to-end solution that provides the framework and tools to easily and rapidly create data analytics and visualization applications for all data-stakeholders in the commercial building ecosystem. Applications address energy efficiency, comfort and wellbeing, sustainability, maintenance, compliance and certification, including pre-defined metrics for BREEAM assessment. Developed as a device-agnostic, easy-to-use, scalable solution, vyzVoice lowers the barriers faced by middle-market companies on their path to digital transformation.
Creating value for owners and occupants through the digital transformation of commercial buildings
Digital transformation has swept across all industries, and commercial real estate is no exception. The reduced cost of sensors and connected devices means that middle-market commercial buildings can also reap the benefits of data-driven decision making, a resource that had previously been reserved for new construction or large-scale buildings with higher investment capabilities and IT resources.
Looking beyond energy efficiency to healthy, productive work environments
Energy efficiency has been the key driver for smart buildings, with a focus on cost reduction and sustainability targets, but the indoor environment is not always considered. A growing body of evidence now clearly demonstrates that indoor climate significant impacts employee wellbeing. Temperature, humidity, ventilation rates, CO2, VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds), luminosity and noise levels directly impact not only employee health but their ability to concentrate and be productive.
Measurable financial impact for owners and tenants
The concept of promoting employee wellbeing at work is nothing new. However, it is not until recently that the significant financial impact for companies is understood in terms of reduced absences, increased productivity, and improved employee satisfaction and retention. Employee costs account for 90% of a company’s costs in a commercial building. A small increase in employee productivity carries a significant financial benefit. Leading companies now recognize the promotion of wellbeing and a healthy work environment as a competitive advantage in their operations, and in their ability to attract and retain top talent.
Building owners who respond to these needs are rewarded with premium rents, lower tenant turnover and retained building value. Many seek to leverage building certifications as a differentiator in attracting and retaining top tenants and maximizing their return on investment. BREEAM, the world’s leading building sustainability assessment method, is recognized as a benchmark in sustainable, healthy buildings. Owners of BREEAM-certified buildings report up to a 24% increase in rental rates compared to conventional buildings, and consider certification to preserve and increase market value.
