Building management system vs building automation system: What’s the difference between the two? Is there even a difference?

The terms building management system (BMS) and building automation system (BAS) are used interchangeably in the commercial real estate (CRE) industry. Here, we define what the terms mean and how BMS and BAS are used in CRE buildings. 

Building Management System vs Building Automation System

So, what are all these systems about anyway? The simple answer is that they are tools used on a roadmap to commercial building operations efficiency. 

A building management system, also referred to by some as a building automation system, is a computer-based control system. A BMS or BAS is tasked with the automatic regulation and control of non-GMP facility subsystems, maintaining predefined parameters (also known as set points), and the control of their functionality.  

The major goal of a BMS is to optimize safety of a commercial building. It also monitors and optimizes the use and efficiency of subsystems, such as the HVAC system. This enables those subsystems to operate more efficiently.  

3 Ways an HVAC Management Software System Streamlines Operations for CRE Landlords

HVAC management software not only acts as a hub for all HVAC unit data but creates a hands-off approach between property teams and tenants. Keep reading to learn the three value propositions of an HVAC management software system.

What Subsystems Does a BMS/BAS Control? 

In addition to the HVAC system mentioned above, some other subsystems include (but are not limited to): 

• Hot and chilled water systems 
• Lighting and electrical systems 
• Fire and sprinkler systems 
• Central fume collection 
• Laminar flow units 
• Central vacuum system 
• Heat blowers 
• Security systems 

Who Provides BMS and BAS Solutions? 

There are several building management system/building automation system providers for the CRE industry, including: 

• Siemens 
• Johnson Controls 
• Tridium 
• Alerton 
• AutomatedLogic  
• Trane 

3 Reasons to Use Building Technology Solutions to Meet CRE Sustainability Goals

Technology for CRE sustainability will play a significant role in the future of establishing energy-efficient buildings. Here are three reasons why CRE owners and operators should look to building technology solutions as a way of achieving greener properties.

What is an Intelligent HVAC Optimization System? 

There is some software available that integrates with your existing BMS/BAS to automatically optimize HVAC systems across your buildings. Such tools can help you lower energy consumption and costs quickly. And these tools can be cost-effective because no additional capital investment is required. 

This sort of technology can improve operational efficiencies, help your portfolio meet its sustainability goals, and increase NOI. 

An intelligent HVAC optimization system will monitor all HVAC equipment 24/7 and can:   

• Monitor and learn equipment operations  
• Leverage AI and data inputs to make real-time micro-adjustments  
• Optimize every piece of HVAC equipment  

So that you can:  

• Reduce energy consumption and costs  
• Maximize tenant comfort 
• Exceed indoor air quality standards  

Several innovative CRE companies are using an intelligent HVAC optimization system to increase indoor air quality, cut energy consumption, and save big. Read their success stories – including how one company grew monthly ROI 400% at a large metro center Class A office building.