No, really. What is building automation?

Why the best building automation is the kind you never notice

I know what you’re probably thinking: “Toni, I’ve been in building automation for years. I already know what it is.”

And you’re right. We all know the nuts and bolts of these systems. But here’s the thing, most of the people working inside the buildings we automate have no idea these systems even exist.

After spending the last decade and a half installing and programming these systems, I’ve come to realize something important: we often forget how they’re perceived by the people who actually use the building. The office workers, the folks walking through the doors every day. They’re our real customers.

It’s easy to overlook these systems because when everything works right, the office just feels comfortable.

Think about it. When their office is comfortable, they’re not praising how well the thermostat works. They’re not thinking about the thermostat at all.

And that’s exactly how it should be.

We design and install these systems so the building can do its job without anyone noticing. When building automation works well, it’s invisible—and that’s what makes it so powerful.

Building automation connects all the building’s different systems, HVAC, lighting, access control, and more, so they work together quietly and efficiently behind the scenes. When done right, the technology blends into the background, letting office workers focus on their day without distractions. As technicians, it’s our job to make sure all these pieces fit together seamlessly, keeping the system running smoothly and unnoticed.

A well-designed building automation system isn’t just a collection of equipment. It’s the foundation of a modern building’s comfort, security, and efficiency, keeping things running smoothly so the office environment supports productivity and focus.

So what does this mean for us as technicians?

It means focusing on the details that make the system seamless and invisible for the people using the building. Things like clean installation, thorough testing, and thoughtful commissioning; all the work that keeps the building running smoothly without anyone noticing.

To deliver that invisible, seamless experience for building occupants, we need to focus on three key areas:

1. Clean work

Clean installations don’t just look better, they prevent issues down the line. Whether you’re working with exposed VAV boxes or equipment above ceiling tiles, assume someone will inspect your work. Messy installations get noticed and often end up in photos on Friday afternoon email chains that ruin your weekend.

2. Thorough testing

Point-to-point verification is essential. Even if you’re installing the same “cookie cutter” hardware and programming hundreds of times, and you might assume that just because one works, they all work... well, you know what they say about assuming. Trust me, I’ve been the second half of that saying more than once. Thorough testing ensures everything performs as expected before handing it off. Whether it’s the first thermostat or the 30th controller, I guarantee you will find one mistake or malfunctioning piece of equipment somewhere.

3. Thoughtful commissioning

Commissioning goes beyond point-to-point testing. It’s the process of validating the entire system’s operation as a whole, making sure all components work together as intended under real-world conditions. This step includes fine-tuning, optimizing system performance, and addressing any unexpected issues. Thoughtful commissioning doesn’t just make sure "it works"; it anticipates future conditions that may challenge the system. This is our chance to stress test the system and maybe even break a few things along the way.

Clean installations prevent problems before they start.

Thorough testing catches mistakes before the customer ever sees them.

And thoughtful commissioning makes the whole system run smoothly and unnoticed.

The next time you’re on a project, try to remember who uses the system the most: the office employee who walks into a comfortable building, where the lights adjust automatically, the temperature is just right, and they don't give any of it a second thought.

Customers don’t call when the system is working; they call when it’s not.

That mindset is key to being a professional in this field. Not just a good BAS technician, but a professional in any craft.

If you’re serious about mastering this trade, don’t go it alone. Follow along and share with other techs. Let’s build a smarter industry together. I’ll be putting together more quick, practical lessons, insights from the field, and eventually a free guide to help you level up your BAS skills.

Stay tuned.