The award honors Budiardjo's efforts to further the building technologies industry by uniting all the players from the different sectors of the industry such as HVAC, access control, lighting, CCTV, etc., to communicate the benefits of whole building integration and the role IT convergence plays in accomplishing this goal. Budiardjo helped achieve this in 2003 with BuilConn, an annual conference and exhibition that blends technical- and application-oriented presentations with networking opportunities for building systems professionals.

"While I am personally honored by this award, it clearly demonstrates that the subject of integration and convergence in buildings is taking root widely in this industry," Budiardjo said. "In a very direct way, this award recognizes the support that I have received from trade associations, manufacturers, integrators, consultants, owners, and many others that share the vision of a better building environment."

According to Budiardjo, a major hurdle for the industry was to understand how the different sectors were interrelated and appreciate the integration challenges each faced. In addition, he realized the growing trend of IT convergence was going to transform the entire industry now that all systems within a building can be integrated into an existing IT network.

To further address the issues of convergence from a different point of view within the industry, Budiardjo introduced BuilSpec in the fall of 2004. An 11-city tour of day-long seminars, BuilSpec shed light on the various new technologies and trends, and how their benefits can be utilized by the consulting-specifying engineer as well as the building owner and operator to produce a more cost-effective and efficient building.

BuilConn 2005 will be held in Dallas, March 21-24, at the Adam's Mark Hotel. For more information, visit www.builconn.com.

Publication date: 03/07/2005