Episode Description:
What if the key to unlocking more profitable and efficient building automation projects was already at your fingertips?
In Episode 488, you’re invited into a detailed conversation tailored specifically for building automation professionals. This episode explores how OEMs like Johnson Controls are equipping their contractor channels with advanced tools - not just to sell, but to successfully deliver full BAS solutions from estimation to final commissioning.
This episode is about helping you rethink the way you approach your BAS projects. Whether you're estimating, designing, installing, or managing the handoff to operations, there are resources out there that can make you faster, more accurate, and more profitable.
You won’t just hear about features - you’ll hear how these tools and processes can be applied to your business and your daily operations.
Key topics explored include:
- The underestimated power of estimation tools and how they impact risk, labor, and material accuracy.
- How engineering efforts in the sales phase can translate into operational success and earlier cash flow.
- What to consider when transitioning to IP controls and how OEM partnerships are shaping the network infrastructure conversation.
- How to strategically manage materials to drive revenue and reduce risk before a project even breaks ground.
- How automation and evolving software tools are reducing human error and accelerating project timelines.
If you're a contractor, estimator, engineer, or project manager in the BAS space, this episode will give you insight into what’s possible with the right toolset and the right approach. You’ll walk away with new perspectives on how to enhance your current workflows and set your projects up for greater success. Listen in to discover how the strategies discussed can impact your business.
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How OEM Tools Are Shaping the Future of BAS Project
In the fast-paced world of building automation, success often comes down to how well you can manage complexity - from estimating a project to final commissioning. In Episode 488 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast, Phil Zito sits down with Jonathan Lewis from Johnson Controls to explore how OEMs are equipping their contracting channels with robust tools and resources that simplify and strengthen every phase of a BAS project.
This blog post unpacks the key themes of their conversation and highlights why these tools matter for contractors, system integrators, and anyone navigating the evolving landscape of smart buildings.
From Sales to Operations: A Full Lifecycle Approach
Jonathan provides a detailed look at how Johnson Controls supports its ABCs (Authorized Building Controls) channel through the Facility Explorer suite. This toolkit helps contractors estimate labor and material costs with greater accuracy, manage project risks, and speed up the release to operations, all while reducing the chance for error and slippage.
The conversation emphasizes how early engineering work done during the estimating phase can and should be carried through to streamline submittals, program generation, and graphics development. When used correctly, this continuity can shorten timelines and improve cash flow.
Why System Thinking Beats Part Thinking
One major takeaway is the shift from focusing on individual parts to thinking in terms of full systems. The estimation tools are designed to consider mechanical systems like AHUs, terminal units, and boiler plants as integrated wholes. This approach enables more accurate labor and time forecasting while supporting smarter purchasing decisions.
IP Controls and the Infrastructure Challenge
The discussion also tackles the growing push toward IP-based controls. Jonathan shares how the adoption of industrial-grade Cisco switches and pre-configured engineering tools is helping contractors overcome historical challenges with IT infrastructure. This move is simplifying network setup and enhancing reliability, provided contractors plan for it early in the project.
Support Beyond Products
It is clear that Johnson Controls is not just selling hardware. They are offering a comprehensive strategy for enabling their partners to be more efficient and profitable. This includes negotiated pricing for materials, training support for subcontractors, and documentation tools that help standardize and automate the commissioning process.
Looking Ahead
The episode closes with a glimpse into the potential of AI-driven design and engineering workflows. Although not yet ready for prime time in large-scale projects, tools like generative AI are beginning to show promise for retro-commissioning and small-scale systems work.
Final Thoughts
This podcast episode offers a clear message: for contractors and integrators working in the BAS industry, understanding and leveraging OEM-provided toolsets is no longer optional. It is a strategic advantage. From cash flow improvements to labor planning and network design, the right tools can make your projects run smoother and more profitably.
For a full breakdown of the conversation, listen to the full episode of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast.
