Smart campus in practice

A dynamic education and research ecosystem

Smart campus technology only works optimally when all the systems, organisations and processes involved work well together. This is why we distinguish four interrelated layers within an institution:

1. Users and their needs
   The specific needs and goals of students, researchers and employees form the basis for the design of a smart campus.
2. Organisation and processes
   This layer focuses on how institutions set up and manage their processes to meet the needs of the above-mentioned users.
3. Applications and information
   Ict systems and applications support the processes in the yellow layer and ensure efficient campus organisation.
4. Technology and infrastructure
   The underlying systems, such as sensors, networks and platforms, enable the applications in the blue layer.

What are the challenges of a smart campus?

When implementing a smart campus, you face several challenges. These can be grouped into three main themes:

1. More efficient use of resources
2. Sustainability and energy management
3. Well-being and convenience for students and employees

Below you can read how a smart campus responds to these for each theme.

1. More efficient use of resources

• Smart use of space: sensors and data analysis provide insight into the occupancy and utilisation of spaces so that buildings are used more efficiently.
• Optimising campus flows: monitoring movements of people and resources helps prevent congestion and improves parking management and asset management.
• Schedule maintenance more efficiently: smart technology signals when maintenance or cleaning is needed, saving time and costs.

2. Sustainability and energy management

• Reduced energy consumption: sensors and data provide insight into energy use, allowing lighting, heating and cooling to be controlled more efficiently.
• Reducing food waste: by predicting attendance patterns, catering can buy more accurately and reduce unnecessary waste.

3. Well-being and ease of use for students and staff

• Healthy working and learning environments: CO₂ and temperature sensors automatically provide fresh air, a pleasant temperature and optimal lighting, contributing to concentration and performance.
• Always insight into available rooms: an app shows in real-time which study, work or meeting rooms are available.
• Flexible and efficient scheduling: timetables are tailored to users' needs, ensuring that rooms are used optimally.
• Easy navigation: digital wayfinding helps students and staff find their way around campus and buildings quickly and without stress.