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The Sky’s the Limit for Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is revolutionizing the global business environment, and the architecture and engineering (AE) industry is no exception.
Modern AE designs have merged with groundbreaking visualization and simulation software to create advanced 3D models. The software’s requirement for increased computing power creates bottlenecks for architects and engineers relying on local office computing speeds.
Enter cloud computing. Rapidly becoming an integral player in the AE industry, cloud computing provides efficient and dynamic data and power management by moving processing activities off-site and into the “cloud.”
Cloud computing offers the benefits of large-scale computing power without the cost of maintenance. Negating the necessity of owning high-powered computers to reap the benefits of cutting-edge technology, cloud computing has leveled the playing field for small businesses and contract engineers. No matter the business size, everyone now can have access to the same software and computing power used by industry giants.
One key advantage of cloud computing is centralized data storage. Engineers can easily access and edit structural plans from the cloud, regardless of their devices. Central storage also facilitates streamlined data sharing and collaboration with other authorized users.
For any architect or engineer to realize the full benefits of cloud computing, integration with the Internet of Things (IoT) is essential. Centralized information storage and powerful data processing enables extensive networks of IoT devices to assimilate, a critical capability for the implementation of smart buildings.
Relying on the synergies of cloud computing to promote sustainable architectural designs, smart buildings can generate incredible savings in energy usage. Architects and engineers design IoT-connected systems that deliver lighting and temperature comforts based on occupation sensors. Because buildings consume such a sizable portion of the world’s daily energy total, cloud computing-based technology is certainly attracting attention.
Jon Downey, GISP, PMP
Jon Downey, vice president and director of the Partner Geospatial Sales Team at Woolpert, also is the firm’s team lead for cloud computing services. Jon has a rich background in computer science, IT and application development. He is partnering with Google to bring enhanced location-based services to the masses, one API at a time.