Created by Siemens Industry Inc., the Smartest Building in America challenge looks at how creatively facility managers use the technology that keeps America’s buildings operating. Anyone may submit a nominating entry for a building that operates APOGEE or TALON building-automation systems. Participants are asked to submit brief videos that explain why their buildings are the smartest in America.  They can submit their entry form and video online at www.smartestbuildinginamerica.com.

A panel consisting of leading authorities in facility management, such as Jim Sinopoli, managing principal of Smart Buildings, will judge the entries. Two prizes will be awarded in each product category (APOGEE and TALON). Grand-prize winners will receive $25,000 in products and services from Siemens’ Building Technologies Division or a $25,000 contribution to a qualified charity of their choice. Runner-up prize winners will receive $15,000 in products and services from the Building Technologies Division or a $15,000 contribution to a qualified charity of their choice.

The APOGEE building-automation system provides an open-system architecture that allows a facility’s information to be immediately accessible to everyone who needs it. The TALON building-control system provides integrators with an open architecture based on BACnet or LonTalk protocols.