A critical review of the impact of embedded smart sensors on productivity in the workplace

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between the embedded smart sensors (ESS) technologies and productivity; it seeks to provide an overview regarding the use and impacts of ESS in particular on users' performance. An attempt will be made to explore some of the current ESS tools and technologies, which might affect user performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review and critical analysis of recently published papers (1999‐2005) related to intelligent buildings and smart sensors which aims to assess their impacts on productivity and performance in office buildings.

Findings

In today's immense challenges of uncertainty, workforce mobility and ever increasing insecurity and unpredictability characterizing many business organizations ESS and will have a wide‐ranging ramifications to office productivity which is partially dependent on the utility of the space and internal environment within which business operates.

Practical implications

Intelligent networks based on open, interoperable and interchangeable ESS will be of a paramount importance in optimizing the operational efficiency of office buildings as much as it will provide a long‐term multi‐ strategic approach for facility and property management. This will be beneficial to varying property stakeholders including clients, owners, facilities managers and end‐users of office building; this in turn determines the responsiveness of space.

Originality/value

It is anticipated that that the findings will be vital for all those professionals involved into the design process, management and operation of workplace.

Citation

Shabha, G. (2006), "A critical review of the impact of embedded smart sensors on productivity in the workplace", Facilities, Vol. 24 No. 13/14, pp. 538-549. https://doi.org/10.1108/02632770610705301