Technology and the built environment
- Construction management and web-based technology
- eCommerce
- Wireless technology
Context
Technology has an ever-increasing role in the management and occupancy of commercial and residential property. ICT systems and wireless technology, in particular, have enabled better facilities management.
As the sustainability agenda broadens, technological innovation is likely to change the way in which we manage and occupy our buildings. This fuels a wider debate on the future of orthodox property solutions, and more particularly the role of the office as the primary model for work. More widely, technology will impact property location, mixed use development and value.
Our research in this field has questioned the traditional management and occupancy of some forms of commercial real estate and encouraged fresh thinking. Future issues may include the technology infrastructures schools and colleges will need to meet the aspirations of the Z generation; the impact of next generation technology on the workplace; and the continued development of facilities management in the age of Wi-Fi.
Case study:
Wireless technologies in retail environments: threats and opportunities
In the largely invisible wireless revolution, shopping centres are becoming increasingly crowded with airborne traffic, presenting shopping centre managers with both opportunities for income generation and threats to signal congestion.
CEM’s national research survey found that relatively few shopping centre managers had taken steps to manage Wi-Fi use and provided the basis for guidance on why and how this needs to change.
The report covers security, congestion, health and safety, and civil liberties. It explores how Wi-Fi is used by retailers and incorporates case studies with John Lewis and River Island. Outlining a series of recommendations for managing Wi-Fi use this report discusses its likely future impact on lease covenants, services and service charges, and buildings and health and safety regulations, and legislation.
Sponsor: British Council for Shopping Centres.