Our industry is famed for its complexity and intricate collaborations. The idea of a smart building design consultancy running on just two people might sound like a radical proposition. Yet, in our increasingly digital world, where the industry seems to have converged on a standard set of smart building capabilities, the impressive prowess of generative AI could enable companies to lean out their operations to just two people.
Imagine a consultancy where one person is the technical dynamo, responsible for writing specifications, coordinating with other design disciplines, and interpreting a labyrinth of standards and technical challenges. Alongside them, a savvy business strategist focusing on selling the service and tailoring designs to client needs. Together, they form a duo that is both agile and highly efficient, capable of delivering high-quality, bespoke designs without the overhead of a bloated team.
This minimalistic proposal stems from the clear advancement of generative AI. In traditional settings, technical specification drafting and design coordination often requires a team of experts meticulously poring over documents and liaising with various stakeholders. Today, however, AI can shoulder much of this load. By harnessing industry-standardised smart building frameworks, and a broad bank of exemplars, a technical specialist can now rely on AI to generate detailed specifications and simulate design outcomes. This not only accelerates the process but also reduces the likelihood of human error—making compliance with evolving standards a far less daunting task.
Of course, a tool is only as good as the hand that wields it. The technical lead in this two-person setup isn’t simply a code monkey; they are a seasoned professional who understands the nuances of smart building systems. Their role is to ensure that the AI’s outputs align with the client’s specific needs and that any bespoke requirements are seamlessly integrated into the design. In essence, they are the translator between the cold logic of algorithms and the warm, messy world of real-world building requirements.
Meanwhile, the second half of this dynamic duo is the business savant. Their role is as much about cultivating relationships as it is about understanding market trends and client challenges. By staying ahead of client demands and adapting designs, they ensure that the consultancy remains not only relevant but also a step ahead of the competition. Their job is to demystify the jargon and technical complexities, presenting clients with clear, actionable insights and solutions that resonate with their unique business objectives.
This proposal may raise eyebrows among industry veterans who are accustomed to a larger, bums-on-seats model. But the reality is that technology is increasingly democratising expertise. With AI handling routine tasks underpinning design, the traditional barriers to entry for smart building consultancies are fading. Instead of a large team, all that’s needed is a simple partnership where each individual’s expertise complements the other’s—driving innovation and delivering results at a pace that was unimaginable just a few years ago.
In this brave new world of smart building design, less may indeed be more.
In Dr Marson’s monthly column, he’ll be chronicling his thoughts and opinions on the latest developments, trends, and challenges in the Smart Buildings industry and the wider world of construction. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you're sure to find something of interest here.
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About the author:
Matthew Marson is an experienced leader, working at the intersection of technology, sustainability, and the built environment. He was recognised by the Royal Academy of Engineering as Young Engineer of the Year for his contributions to the global Smart Buildings industry. Having worked on some of the world’s leading smart buildings and cities projects, Matthew is a keynote speaker at international industry events related to emerging technology, net zero design and lessons from projects. He is author of The Smart Building Advantage and is published in a variety of journals, earning a doctorate in Smart Buildings.