Assignment 2: Sensor Tech for HVAC - Draft 1 (Summary & Reader Response)

In the article "The Expanding Role of Sensor in "Smart' HVAC Systems" Manz (2018), expresses the need for sensors in buildings as it will "reap significant energy savings". He explained that by connecting all the various systems in the building, especially the HVAC system, will create an integrated and innovative monitoring software that observes the energy consumption of the building. Manz mentioned that over the years building owners neglected energy savings until the 1970s and 2000s when there was an increase in oil prices making "power conservation is essential". Another aspect of the need for sensor technology is the advancement of technology. Replacing the analogue sensor with a small-scale digital unit reduces installation time and "eliminate the need for recalibration". With the points explained in the article, Manz could have elaborated on the overall cost of the sensors.

Firstly, tenants may not be willing to spend additional costs for upgrades. According to the U.S Department of Energy, the "split-incentive" refers to the accumulation costs and energy-efficient advantages to various bodies based on the responsibilities for capital improvements and other bills, such as utilities. An example of the "split-incentive", a building owner would like to replace the fluorescent lights to a LED motion sensor light that will cost $20 000 in total. Some tenants are willing to accept this proposal as it will reduce their utility cost but some tenants may refuse. It may be due to their lease period is shorter than the breakeven savings cost which could be 10 years later. With the implementation of these "smart" systems, there would be an increase in their rentals. 

 

References: 

U.S Department of Energy (2016, April) Energy Efficiency in Separate Tenant Spaces - A Feasibility Study https://www.energystar.gov/sites/default/files/asset/document/DOE%20-%20Energy%20Efficiency%20in%20Separate%20Tenant%20Spaces_0.pdf

 

Therma (n. d.) https://www.therma.com/pros-vs-cons-of-implementing-iot-programs-in-your-facility/

Assignment 1: Self-Introductory Letter

 

Dear Professor Brad, 

My name is Nur Atiqah and with this introduction letter, I hope that you will get to know me better. Before I was accepted into university, I went to Institute of Technical Education graduating with a Higher Nitec certificate in Facility Management and went on to take my diploma in Integrated Facility Management at Temasek Polytechnic. Upon graduation, I worked at EM Services as a Property Officer at Pasir Ris – Punggol Town Council.

My interest in engineering started when my father used to watch a television series on Discovery channel called “How’s Its Made”. The series would show the process, from beginning till end, of making our everyday items, such as hairdryer, canned food, computers, etc. It had answered my curiosity in the various process taken to build and create such items. This made my mind think of how the building components were made and how it was installed.  

While working at EM Services, I gained confidence to speak to strangers and using the polite terms in addressing an issue. For example, I would receive multiple feedback regarding a unit’s belonging obstructing the passageway at the common corridor. I would visit the unit and advise them to remove the said items, informing them about the safety aspects; fire safety and accessibility. Most residents will understand and co-operate, but some will question even more. During this time, I would find myself in a difficult position as I am unable to find the proper terms or inform them in an appropriate manner.

Aside from receiving feedback from calls, I would receive them via emails. I am competent in verbalizing with residents, but I lack in effective writing as I find it difficult to construct a decent reply. Before I sent out the reply, my manager would vet the email and this may take time for him to think through and paraphrase the reply. At times, I would have to reply 5 different emails in a day.

My goals for this module are to improve in my writing and ­­­­­­­­speaking skills. My mind is able to process through the ideas and opinions but I find myself unable to project it out. Even as I am writing this letter, I still find it difficult to write down my reflection. I hope that with much practice and understanding I am able to overcome this hurdle.

Regards, 

Nur Atiqah Nadia

(updated on Thurs 24 Sep 2020)

I have read Dorathy's, Nadia's and Clement's introductory letter on 24 Sep 2020.

Tutorial 1, Task 3: The Importance of Communication Skills for Engineer

"Employers identify communication as one of the basic competencies every graduate should have, asserting that the ability to communicate is valuable for obtaining employment and maintaining successful job performance."

Sherwyn Morrale, Michael Osborn & Judy Pearson, Professors of Communication (2000)

What can I derive from the quote above?

Being a graduate and showing an exceptional profile when applying for a job does perk up the employers' eye. However, without the necessary and basic communication skills will diminish the possibility of obtaining that dream job.  

How does an employer determine the applicant is suitable for the job?

One thing I dread when applying for a job is the interview. The whole interview may take 10mins at most but it feels like an hour of grueling questions. However, after much exposure to interviews, I realized that it is the critical part of the employment process. Through interview questions, the employer will be able to determine if we have the basic communication skills/ competency in taking up the role. 

Why is effective communication important to you?

After I've been working 2 years in the building management and maintenance industry, I discovered miscommunication and misinformation is the main reason for works to be delayed or executed incorrectly. For example, giving instructions to an employee may seem to be an easy task. However, if the instructions were not delivered properly or giving an incomplete direction of the "what to do" will cause delays and leads to disruptive working relationships.