Smart Space Design–A Framework and an IoT Prototype Implementation

Abstract

In the last decade, the need for smart-space design has been on the rise. Various data collected from Internet-of-Things (IoT) and sensors are used to optimize the operation of smart spaces, which, in urban areas, are evolving into smart cities. How can smart spaces provide value to citizens? There is a need to develop smart services that leverage emerging technologies while taking an inclusive and empowering approach to the inhabitants. To address this need, we present a framework for designing smart spaces and we use a bottom-up (inclusive) approach to instantiate a smart kiosk (SK). The SK prototype provides a practical approach for transforming a traditional building into a smart space utilizing IoT and artificial intelligence technologies. The design science research (DSR) methodology was followed for designing and evaluating the prototype. An iterative process that involves occupant feedback and brainstorming sessions coupled with a literature review was carried out to identify the issues and services related to a smart building. The SK prototype implements three intelligent services that were prioritized by the citizens of the building. The results show that the SK has a high usage and acceptance rate and it can transform a lobby into a highly engaged and smart building space. The prototyping process suggests important factors to ideate and assess smart services and shows that small-scale projects can be successful to enable smart buildings. The framework provides a theoretical contribution while the design and development process assists practitioners in identifying and developing intelligent services based on IoT technology.