Mike Blackman, managing director, Integrated Systems Events tells Smart Buildings Magazine his thoughts on smart buildings.
How did you become involved in the Smart Buildings industry?
I’ve seen firsthand how technology can transform not just buildings but entire environments. At ISE, we’ve always been about connecting professionals with the innovations that shape the spaces where people live and work, and smart buildings have become a central focus of that mission. Over the years, the integration of connected devices, automation, and data analytics has shown us that buildings can be far more efficient and user-friendly than ever before - helping our community explore and implement these solutions over the years has been deeply rewarding.
What excites you about the Smart Buildings industry?
What excites me most is the chance to turn buildings into truly intelligent, human-centric environments. Smart Spaces is a key Megatrend at ISE 2026, we’ll be emphasising how smart buildings and connected spaces are redefining work and everyday life. Smart buildings now have the power to optimise energy, enhance comfort, and improve occupant well-being, whilst also supporting sustainability goals. Seeing this technology applied in ways that deliver measurable benefits for both people and organisations is what makes this field so dynamic and inspiring.
Are there any particular technologies that we should be aware of?
When we talk about the technologies shaping the future of smart buildings, it’s important to think both in terms of the core capabilities and the real-world solutions driving adoption. Smart buildings rely on a rich ecosystem of connected sensors, IoT devices, artificial intelligence and analytics, and integrated building management systems that collectively improve comfort, efficiency, security and sustainability. What we’re seeing on the ground at ISE 2026 is how these technologies come together through actual products and platforms being exhibited by leading brands. In the Residential & Smart Building Zone, you’ll find companies such as ADI | Snap One + Control4, demonstrating control, networking and remote-management tools that tie together climate, lighting, audio, security and more, and KNX Association showcasing its open-standard building control ecosystem with over 500 manufacturers contributing interoperable solutions. Technology Integration Partners will bring together design-oriented partners including Domotz, Russound and D-Tools to show integrated smart power, networking and monitoring systems, whilst RTI and Pharos Controls highlight intuitive automation and dynamic lighting control across commercial environments. All these technologies illustrate how sensor networks, automation platforms, software orchestration and open integration standards are enabling smarter, more responsive buildings.
Are people aware of the regulations that they will need to comply with in the near future?
Awareness of regulatory requirements is improving, but many organisations are still catching up. European and international mandates on energy efficiency and building performance are evolving rapidly, and staying ahead of these requirements is critical. At ISE, we provide a platform for the industry to explore these issues in a practical and informed way. The Smart Building Summit, taking place Wednesday 4 February at the show, plays a key role in this, bringing together industry leaders, policymakers and technology experts to address regulation, standards and best practice alongside real-world implementation. Along with our Megatrends programme, the Summit helps attendees understand not only what regulations are coming, but how smart building technologies can be used proactively to meet compliance requirements whilst delivering greater operational efficiency and value.
What are the benefits of a smart building?
Smart buildings bring a wide range of benefits, and what’s particularly compelling is how those benefits span both performance and people. From an operational point of view, they help organisations use energy more efficiently, reduce running costs, and move from reactive to predictive maintenance. At the same time, they create healthier and more comfortable environments, with better control over lighting, temperature and air quality, which has a real impact on how people feel and perform in those spaces. Smart buildings also play a key role in supporting sustainability targets, strengthening security, and giving owners and operators the data they need to make smarter, more informed decisions. For anyone wanting to see how this all comes together in practice, the Residential & Smart Building Zone at ISE 2026 is where these solutions can be explored firsthand. It’s clear that smart buildings are part of a much bigger shift towards connected and truly human-centric environments.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in the industry?
For anyone starting out in the industry, my advice would be to stay curious and think holistically. Smart buildings aren’t about one technology or discipline, they sit at the intersection of AV, IT, building management, sustainability and user experience, so having a broad understanding is just as important as technical depth. I’d also encourage people to spend time learning about standards, interoperability and regulation early on, as these increasingly shape how solutions are designed and deployed. Just as importantly, get involved in the wider industry community. Events like ISE are invaluable for learning, networking and seeing how technologies work together in the real world. This is a fast-moving industry with enormous potential, and those who are open to continuous learning and collaboration will be best placed to succeed.