The Smart Buildings Academy Podcast | Teaching You Building Automation, Systems Integration, and Information Technology

SBA 339: Energy Management for BAS Professionals

01 Jun 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss energy management strategies and methods that can be implemented by building automation professionals. Resources: ►https...

SBA 338: Are the Cost Savings Worth it? Proportional vs Floating Control

11 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss floating vs proportional control. When would we use each control mode and when we wouldn't. Resources: ►https://Podcast....

SBA 337: Easy Does It, 5 tips to Implementing a Talent Management Strategy in Your Business

10 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to implement a talent management strategy within your business in 5 easy steps. Resources: ►https://Podcast.smartbui...

SBA 336: Discovering Your Customer's Decision Making Process

06 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to discover your customer's decision making process. Resources: ►https://Podcast.smartbuildingsacademy.com/ ► http...

SBA 335: How Does MQTT Work in Building Automation

04 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to MQTT works in building automation systems. Resources: ► https://Podcast.smartbuildingsacademy.com ► https://blo...

SBA 334: How to Incorporate Training with Work - While Staying Profitable

02 May 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to effectively implement training into the work process without sacrificing profitability.

SBA 333: How to Execute Training in the Office

25 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to build out a building automation training program in order to train your folks in your office. Resources: ►Podcast...

SBA 332: How To Identify Sales Opportunities In A Crowded Market

22 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to identify building automation sales opportunities in a crowded market. Resources: ►Podcast.smartbuildingsacademy.c...

SBA 331: Certificates and Certificating Authorities for BAS

20 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss what certificates are, how they work, and what you need to understand about certificates for building automation. Resource...

SBA 330: How Do I Get a Job in Building Automation?

11 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to get a job in building automation and why you'd even want to work in building automation in the first place. Resourc...

SBA 329: Understanding How BACnet Really Works

06 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how BACnet works and what you need to know about the protocol. Resources: ► Podcast.smartbuildingsacademy.com ► blog.s...

SBA 328: Do Apprenticeships Really Need to Last So Long?

04 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss whether or not apprenticeships are still useful and how long these apprenticeships should last.

SBA 327: Is it Possible to Save Energy and Improve Comfort?

01 Apr 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to save energy and maintain comfort on your building automation projects and buildings

SBA 326: The Chicken and The Egg - Deploying IP Devices to New Builds

30 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to deploy IP controls devices in new construction projects.

SBA 325: The Pareto Principle in Controls - What Do you Really Need To Know

28 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to use the pareto principle to focus in on the core skills you need to succeed in building automation.

SBA 324: The 5 Core Skills of Successful BAS Technicians

23 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we dive into the core skills of successful building automation technicians. If you've ever found yourself wondering why do some BAS t...

SBA 323: Is it Hot in Here? Understanding Heating During Shoulder Months

21 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to handle heating loads during shoulder months. Learn how to properly sequence your building automation systems during...

SBA 323: Is it Hot in Here? Understanding Heating During Shoulder Months

21 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to handle heating loads during shoulder months. Learn how to properly sequence your building automation systems during...

SBA 322: The Biggest Barriers to Project Success and How to Overcome Them

09 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the key actions (or lack thereof) that produce building automation product success. We also look at how to implement these...

SBA 321: How to Secure Your BAS Part 3

07 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss common attack methods that can be used to attack a BAS, we look at how attacks progress, and we discuss cyber security con...

SBA 320: How to Secure Your BAS Part 2

02 Mar 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we continue our discussion on securing your BAS against cyber threats. We will discuss how to explore the cybersecurity capabilities ...

SBA 319: How to Secure Your BAS Part 1

28 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we begin our discussion on how to secure your building automation. We will explore, potential threats to a building automation system...

SBA 318: Cruise Control to Setpoint - A Model for Understanding PID Loops

18 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how PID loops work and how to effortlessly tune them.

SBA 317: Making Sense of Electrical Concepts Without Becoming an Electrician

16 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the key electrical concepts that a BAS professional needs to understand.

SBA 316: Hitting a Wall? How to Use Targeted Selling to Get In the Door

14 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to use targeted account selling to bypass gatekeepers and advance your sales efforts.

SBA 315: Is Capital Planning The Ultimate Path to Sales Success?

11 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to use capital planning to help supercharge our BAS sales.

SBA 314: How to Scope and Price Service Work

09 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how to scope and price controls service work.

SBA 313: How to Sell More Services To Avoid Pipeline Dips

07 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss how you can use services to increase your total sales and reduce pipeline dips during off-season months.

SBA 312: The 4 Point Method for Bidding Retrofit Work

04 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the 4-point method for bidding retrofit work so you can win more deals.

SBA 311: How to Review, Scope, and Estimate Retrofit Projects

02 Feb 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the method for reviewing, scoping, and estimating retrofit projects.

SBA 310: 5 Key Questions to Ask During a Site Walk

31 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the top five questions you want to make sure you ask when you perform a site walk.

SBA 309: Three Killer Strategies for Bidding New Construction Work

28 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss three strategies you can use to win in new construction building automation bids.

SBA 308: How to Properly Review, Scope, and Estimate BAS Projects

26 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we will look at how to properly review, scope, and estimate building automation projects.

SBA 307: 5 Unique Ways to Identify BAS sales opportunities

24 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we will discuss unique ways to identify BAS sales opportunities.

SBA 306: What's New at SBA for 2022

10 Jan 2022

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss what we are working on in 2022 at Smart Buildings Academy.

SBA 305: Key Information BAS Sales Reps Need to Know

13 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Behind every successful BAS company is a successful sales team. But what do BAS sales people do and what do they need to know? In this episode we expl...

SBA 304: BAS Sales Role

06 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

How do you succeed in BAS sales?  What are the different roles for a BAS sales person? In this episode we discuss the BAS sales role, what the role ...

SBA 303: BAS Service Technician

03 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

The BAS Service Technician is one of the most challenging roles due to the diversity of skills and tasks required.  So how do you become a service te...

SBA 302: BAS Project Manager

01 Dec 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Project managers can make or break a BAS project and ultimately the financials of a BAS company. But how do you effectively manage BAS projects? In th...

SBA 301: BAS Programmer

22 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever considered getting into BAS Programming but didn't know where to start? The BAS programmer is one of the most sought after roles by indi...

SBA 300: BAS Designer

17 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss the BAS Designer role. What is a BAS Designer? What does a BAS Designer do? What skills does a BAS Designer require? How d...

SBA 299: BAS Technician

15 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss the BAS Technician role. What is a BAS Technician What does a BAS Technician do? What skills does a BAS Technician require...

SBA 298: Establishing a Career in BAS

05 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss the benefits of a career in building automation and how to get started.

SBA 297: How to Manage Warranty

03 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

A lot of BAS companies lose money during the warranty phase.  But it doesn't have to be that way.  In this episode we discuss how you can protect yo...

SBA 296: How to Perform Owner Training

01 Nov 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to design and perform owner training so that you don't get deluged with warranty calls.

SBA 295: How to Close Out a Project

27 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Learn how to close out your building automation projects while avoiding slippage, warranty issues, and chargebacks. 

SBA 294: How to Work with CxA

25 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to work with and support commissioning agents on your building automation projects.

SBA 293: How to Work with TAB

22 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to estimate, schedule and prepare to support test and balance in our building automation projects.

SBA 292: How to Work with IT Groups

20 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to work with IT groups and IT personnel on your building automation projects.  You will learn what roles exist within ...

SBA 291: How to Program from Submittals

18 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to write building automation programs from scratch.  We discuss the programming process, how to use design patterns, a...

SBA 290: How to Perform Graphics and Front-end Setup

15 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Often times what the customer sees is what defines the "quality" of your project.  The reality is that graphics and the "functionality" of your build...

SBA 289: How to Validate Installation and Perform P2P Checkout

13 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Do you want to avoid callbacks on your building automation projects? In this episode we discuss how to validate installation and how to perform point-...

SBA 288: How to Manage Project Costs

11 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to manage project costs and strategies for cost reduction and cashflow in your building automation projects.

SBA 287: How to Schedule out Labor and Common Tasks

08 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Scheduling out labor for building automation projects can be a pain. In this episode we discuss how to approach labor scheduling and labor management ...

SBA 286: How to Line Out Subcontractors

06 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to line out your subcontractors so that they can properly execute your BAS projects.

SBA 285: How to Create Submittals and Project Documents

04 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to create submittals and project documents for your building automation projects.

SBA 284: How to Perform Takeoffs and Reestimates

01 Oct 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast we discuss how to perform takeoffs and reestimates after the sales to operations handoff proces...

SBA 283: How to Perform Sales to Operation Handoffs

29 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how and why to perform sales to operations handoffs for your building automation projects

SBA 282: The Mindset Behind a BAS Career

24 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to approach starting and advancing a career in building automation.  We also look at the mindset of investing in your ...

SBA 281: On My Mind

22 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode I share random things that are on my mind about sales, building automation, technology, and training. I hope you enjoy this glimpse in...

SBA 280: BACnet IP vs MS/TP

20 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we take a slightly biased look at the pros and cons of IP enabled controllers versus MS/TP controllers.  Enjoy!

SBA 279: Selling Access Control Integrations

17 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to sell very complex integrations. We discuss the importance of identifying your vertical market and stakeholders, we a...

SBA 278: Implementing Access Control Integrations

15 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Integrating access control systems into your building automation systems can be difficult.  In this podcast episode we discuss strategies and tips fo...

SBA 277: The Basics of Access Control Integrations

13 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we explore the complex world of access control integrations. You will learn the basics of access control systems and the basics of app...

SBA 276: Selling Audio Visual Integrations

03 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to estimate, position, and sell audio visual integrations.

SBA 275: Implementing Audio Visual Integrations

01 Sep 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to use the three integrations methods to integrate your building automation and audio visual systems.

SBA 274: The Basics of Audio Visual Integrations

30 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Audio Visual systems are complex systems.  But when integrated into or with a building automation system they can add tremendous capabilities to the ...

SBA 273: Selling Lighting Integrations

27 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

How do you sell integrations to your customers? What gotchas do you need to be aware of?  How do you approach complex integration sales? Learn all of...

SBA 272: Implementing Lighting Integrations

25 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we explore how to implement lighting integrations. We go step-by-step through the process of implementing lighting integrations and di...

SBA 271: The Basics of Lighting Integrations

23 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we are starting a multi-part series on integration. In this series you will learn strategies, tips, and tricks on how to approach and ...

SBA 270: Why Your Customers Don't Need a Smart Building

20 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

There are so many people promoting smart buildings and smart buildings technology. But do your customer's even need a smart building? In this episode ...

SBA 269: What is Consumption and Demand

18 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss what demand and consumption are and how these concepts apply to building automation.

SBA 268: How to Calculate a ROI for an ECM

16 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Building automation professionals should understand how to calculate the return on investment and payback period for building automation energy conser...

SBA 267: 5 Tips to Sell BAS When You Don't Own the Account

13 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we will be discussing 5 tips to sell building automation solutions to your competitors customers. I believe we are entering a period o...

SBA 266: How to Scope a Retrofit Project

11 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast we discuss the three critical areas you must focus on when you are scoping a retrofit project.

SBA 265: How to Audit a Site

09 Aug 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast we discuss the exact steps to perform a site audit. This process is key for retrofit projects a...

SBA 264 :Selling Services for BAS

23 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to sell services to your building automation customers.

SBA 263: How to use the Cloud for Hosting BAS

21 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast we will be discussing how to use the cloud to host certain parts of your BAS.

SBA 262: Cloud for Building Automation

19 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast we discuss cloud computing and cloud services for building automation systems.

SBA 261: Understanding Strategic Sales in BAS

16 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss how to approach strategic sales opportunities in building automation.

SBA 260: How to work with APIs in BAS

14 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode we discuss to consume data from API's and how to bring that data into your building automation system.

SBA 259: APIs for Building Automation

12 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

What are API's? How do you use them?  Why are they important for building automation? In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast we will ...

SBA 258: Using Capital Plans to Sell BAS

09 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will learn how to use information from capital plans to sell building automation systems.

SBA 257: How to Normalize Data on Existing Sites

07 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will learn how to normalize and consume data from existing systems.

SBA 256: Data for BAS Professionals

05 Jul 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will learn what data is and how we use it in building automation.

SBA 255: Sales Retrofit Process

25 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will learn the retrofit sales process.

SBA 254: How To Setup a IT Network in BAS

23 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, you will learn how to set up an IT network. We will start at the host device and work through ...

SBA 253: BAS Networks 101

21 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we are going to explore key concepts of networking. Discuss how BAS networks work, what they c...

SBA 252: Sales Strategy for CRE in 2021

18 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this Episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we will teach you how to sell building automation solutions to commercial real estate in 2021.

SBA 251: How to Secure your Building Automation System

16 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

There is a ton of noise around cybersecurity lately. And I'm sure a lot of you are getting questions about how to make sure your building automation s...

SBA 250: IAQ Control for Buildings

14 Jun 2021

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, we discuss the new IAQ guidelines and sequences from ASHRAE.  We also look at how to implemen...

SBA 249: Cyber Security for BAS Professionals

17 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

How can you make sure your BAS projects are cyber secure? How do you know where to start? In this week's episode, we discuss what cybersecurity is and...

SBA 248: The Most Common Questions I Receive about Information Technology

03 May 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Every day we get questions about information technology. In this episode, we answer our most common IT questions.

SBA 247: Haystack and Metadata Fundamentals with John Petze

26 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

What is data? How does data work? And why do we need a semantic data model?  These are just a few of the questions we tackle in our conversation wit...

SBA 246: How to Retrocommission Buildings

19 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

I've always worked on the outside of retrocommissioning projects as an advisor or a technician. That's why in this episode I'm going to join you in ex...

SBA 245: Lighting 101 with Beatrice Witzgall

12 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Lighting is one of the most common systems in the building and just like HVAC, we can't really use buildings without lighting. But how often do we act...

SBA 244: Ask Me Anything- Buying a BAS Part 2

05 Apr 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever found yourself challenged to understand the differences between two BAS? Maybe you're trying to understand the hype around all these new...

SBA 243: Building Automation Careers 101

29 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Are you wanting to start a career in building automation but you don't know where to start?  Would you like a proven process to get a job in building...

SBA 242: Implementing MSI and OT Technologies In The Built Environment

15 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Does the idea of implementing integrated use cases seem overwhelming? Are you struggling with how to deal with the complexities of MSI and OT?  In th...

SBA 241: Ask Me Anything- Buying a BAS

08 Mar 2021

Contributed by Lukas

Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the noise when it comes to building automation products and buying decisions for building owners? If so your not a...