Published in Forbes: Swapna Sathyan on why smart buildings need smarter strategy

Jacobs Medical Center

June 5, 2025

Social Sharing

In her newly published Forbes article, "Smart Buildings Begin With Smarter Strategies," Swapna Sathyan, Director of Consulting at Blue Cottage of CannonDesign, challenges the common misconception that smart buildings are all about high-cost, high-tech upgrades.

Instead, she makes a compelling case for starting with strategy, identifying your goals, understanding your current systems and unlocking the value of data that already exists within your buildings.

Testimonials

  • Here's a truth you’ll appreciate: Creating a smart building doesn’t always mean you have to spend more. It’s often more about working smarter with what you have, as most modern buildings already include the necessary technology. Your broader focus should be on integrating systems in a seamless way that can evolve over time, as needed.

    Swapna Sathyan Director of Consulting at Blue Cottage of CannonDesign

The article lays out practical steps organizations can follow to make sure strategy drives smart building decision-making. It draws on the expertise of The Clarient Group, the smart building consulting and technology engineering firm that joined CannonDesign back in April. The Clarient Group has shaped solutions for some of the nation’s most iconic developments, including One World Trade, Central Park Tower and Hudson Yards, and partnering with clients including Northwell Health, Hines and Clifford Chance, among others.

Read Swapna's piece on Forbes

Explore more