Project overview
Bournemouth University set out a vision for a Smart Campus that leverages emerging technologies, the Internet of Things and actionable data to create a more sustainable and outstanding environment to learn, teach, work and visit.
To turn this ambition into a deliverable programme, the University engaged PTS to develop a comprehensive Smart Campus roadmap and implementation strategy. The objective was to align technology investment with strategic drivers across Estates, Facilities, Digital and Academic teams, ensuring long term value and measurable return on investment.
Vision
The University’s ambition was to use smart building technology and sensor data to enable continuous improvement across its physical and digital estate. However, achieving this required clarity of direction, prioritisation of use cases and alignment across multiple departments.
A key challenge was understanding the current state of infrastructure and determining whether existing systems could support future Smart Campus initiatives. The University also required a clear investment plan, supported by financial modelling and defined success metrics, to justify funding and sequence projects effectively.
Without a structured roadmap, there was a risk of fragmented investment and missed opportunities for integration.
Our Approach
PTS adopted a structured methodology to define a realistic, phased Smart Campus strategy.
We began by reviewing the University’s strategic drivers and facilitating workshops with key stakeholders. This ensured that Smart Campus use cases were aligned with institutional priorities, from sustainability and energy management to student experience and operational efficiency. Use cases were then prioritised based on impact and feasibility.
A comprehensive current state assessment was undertaken across IT, Estates, Facilities and Academic teams. This analysis identified existing infrastructure, systems and technologies, highlighting both strengths and gaps that could affect implementation of Smart initiatives.
PTS conducted a detailed marketplace review, evaluating sensor technologies, IoT devices, building control systems, connectivity platforms, data management solutions and relevant software applications. This ensured that recommendations reflected both emerging innovation and legacy investment compatibility.
To support informed decision making, PTS developed return on investment modelling using industry benchmarks for higher education estates. Anticipated savings, efficiencies and potential revenue generation were assessed, with full CapEx and OpEx forecasts provided. Success metrics were defined to measure environmental, operational and financial performance.
Finally, PTS produced a detailed roadmap and commissioning strategy. This included sequencing of projects, roles and responsibilities defined through a RACI matrix, budget forecasting, procurement route advice and consideration of the role of a Master Systems Integrator. The roadmap also incorporated future proofing guidance and opportunities for collaboration.
Outcomes and benefits
The Smart Campus roadmap has provided Bournemouth University with a clear, structured direction of travel for its digital estate transformation.
Key Outcomes
- Prioritised Smart Campus use cases aligned with strategic objectives
- Clear understanding of infrastructure readiness and investment gaps
- Defined ROI modelling and financial forecasting
- Sequenced implementation plan with governance framework
- A scalable foundation for future IoT and smart building innovation
The University now has a robust strategy to guide investment, reduce risk and deliver measurable improvements in sustainability, operational efficiency and campus experience.
Key Stats
Comprehensive Smart Campus roadmap aligned to institutional strategy
ROI modelling and CapEx and OpEx forecasting to support investment decisions
Client testimonial
“PTS was selected based on their depth of knowledge and understanding of the evolving opportunities in this area to support Bournemouth University with clarifying our aspirations for a Smart campus. The PTS team engaged with the University across a number of stakeholders and were probing yet attentive and sympathetic to our various levels of expertise whilst they conducted the work. The effort felt collaborative at all stages and was a very good experience throughout, with clear, effective and timely communication a feature of the task. The PTS team made every effort to refine the final product and provided a comprehensive set of supporting materials to ensure that the University’s requirements were met. They have since been on hand to support any follow up requests.
Stephen Jones
Facilities Manager, Bournemouth University