Areas of improvement most frequently suggested, however, revolve around the ability of owners to run the systems better during operations and maintenance. Few noted the need for any new technologies to improve performance. The systems' self-diagnostics, along with easily adaptable controls that integrate with other systems, are identified as key factors that drive improved performance.

Health Concerns on the Rise

The study reflects the importance of healthy building systems as well. Contractors and engineers were asked to rank the importance of occupants' health and well-being when specifying and installing systems. Not only did 71% of the respondents report health as a high to very high degree of consideration, but over half (54%) said they expect to see an increase in the importance of health-related factors.

The use of building systems to improve occupants' health can be enormously important to building owners. For most, attaining even slightly fewer employee absences, increased productivity and decreased health care costs outweigh savings from energy reduction. While those cost savings are more tangible and offer easily monitored improvements, specifiers should consider how they can effectively convey the link between health and productivity and the systems they select.

Opportunities for Contractors

The study suggests several opportunities for contractors that work with building systems. Owners want to reap all the benefits of the technologies they employ, and contractors that can help them do so will gain a competitive advantage as the market continues to seek improved building performance.

One emerging trend among contractors is to stay engaged with building projects beyond completion into the life cycle of the building. The study clearly demonstrates that many owners can't maximize the use of these systems. Contractors familiar with the technologies can help bridge that gap, providing them an entry into the potentially lucrative operational phase of projects and strengthening their relationship with clients.

However, in order to capitalize on this opportunity, contractors must be able to work with multiple building and control systems. The study also says that they need to be engaged in ongoing systems innovation and integration. In short, they must keep up with the technologies they will be installing.