Do you remember not too many years ago, when we all owned and carried around an mp3 player, cell phone, and camera separately? Packing a bag for a trip, you’d bring your iPod, video camera, and guide books. But when smartphones were introduced, suddenly music, cameras, phones, GPS, and internet were all merged into one device. With features like Apple Pay now, your phone could be the only thing you carry when you leave the house. 

A “smart home” may sound like a sci-fi space pad where only a mysterious movie character would live. On the contrary,today’s automation technology can help your home feel cozier, more fun, more relaxing, and more you. Hidden devices won’t be a distraction or eyesore, and you’ll only notice theirsoothing effects on daily life.

Business owners, you know how much your energy bills can add up each month. If you’ve ever opened a gut-wrenchingly high electricity bill, you’ve felt how mind-boggling energy use can be. Was the air conditioner left on by accident? Are computers left on overnight? It can be hard to tell where the problem stems from. 

If you run a business or an office building, the safety of your staff is a top priority. With vast numbers of people walking in and out every day, it can be challenging to ensure trouble isn’t sneaking in. Card readers have often been used to prevent criminals and trespassers from entering, but lost or stolen ID cards can pose as a threat to security. If anyone were to break into the building after hours, is your security system equipped to track down a suspect?