The document discusses the growth of smart and connected devices and the Internet of Things. It notes that the number of smart objects is projected to grow from around 7 billion currently to over 50 billion by 2020. The document advocates for early integration of smart building technologies like lighting control, HVAC, and security into building design to improve sustainability, quality of life, and business operations through features like energy management and remote monitoring. Integrating smart technologies early in construction can reduce total cost of ownership over the lifetime of the building.