What key factors and major trends have shaped the transformation of building management over the past 25 years?

The Building Management industry has been shaped by three main factors: technological advancements, sustainability concerns, and changing habitat dynamics. Technology particularly has had a profound impact, especially with the adoption of  3D Building Information Modeling (BIM), Internet of Things (IoT) and automation systems. By bridging the gap between the physical and digital worlds, these innovations have allowed buildings to be managed more efficiently and transparently. Smart building technologies, for example, allow real-time monitoring of HVAC, lighting, and security systems, enhancing occupant experience while reducing costs.

Sustainability concerns have also influenced the industry, as buildings are responsible for 40 per cent of global energy-related carbon emissions and costly utility bills represent a heavy burden for building owners. With the growing emphasis on energy efficiency and waste reduction, facility managers are now tasked with implementing sustainable practices aligned with green building standards.

Moreover, the Covid-19 pandemic has accelerated changes in how we work and live, focusing on creating healthier, more collaborative environments. Today, management teams often require the ability to monitor and control building systems remotely, especially during emergencies or when physical access is limited. Tenants also expect faster maintenance response times, seamless digital services, and communal spaces that enhance their lifestyles. All these changes have driven demand for outsourced and professional building management services.

ow is Vietnam adapting to these challenges, especially in terms of sustainability?

Vietnam has made significant progress toward achieving its sustainability goals, including the ambitious target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The Vietnamese Green Building Council (VGBC) is leading efforts with certifications that align with global standards like LEED and WELL. These standards require buildings to meet specific criteria in areas such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and the use of sustainable materials.

The government is also focused on increasing the share of renewable energy in the national grid, with a target of 15-20 per cent by 2030. Many building owners, particularly in the industrial sector, are integrating solar energy solutions, and some are exploring cutting-edge technologies like Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) to optimize energy usage and enhance sustainability.

From the operational side, building management companies step in as architects of efficiency, conducting regular energy audits and identifying areas for improvement, such as HVAC zoning, LED lighting, or water leak detection systems. Sustainability is also about offering comfortable spaces for users through cleanliness and accessibility, creating a holistic environment that supports people’s well-being. In Vietnam, there is an increased focus on Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), including acoustic comfort, air quality management, and healthy eating.

Do you foresee any fundamental transformation for the building management industry in Vietnam in the coming years?

The future of building management will be heavily influenced by advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning. These technologies will enable even more sophisticated automation and a shift from reactive to predictive maintenance, where systems detect anomalies and anticipate issues before they arise, reducing inefficiencies. Traditional maintenance schedules often lead to unnecessary interventions or, conversely, failures due to missed inspections. AI-powered buildings, however, leverage machine learning algorithms to monitor HVAC systems and their energy consumption patterns to predict when components are likely to break down. Similarly, AI technology can use vibration and temperature data from machinery to identify potential bearing or overheating failures. The simulation of various scenarios in virtual twins enables management teams to assess the impact of energy efficiency improvements before implementation. By enabling the collection and analysis of vast amounts of real-time and predictive data on energy usage, asset performance, and occupancy, AI enables building managers to automate routine tasks like work order management and inventory tracking, make better-informed decisions, and focus on strategic initiatives.

AI is also transforming building security and safety by allowing proactive threat detection and incident response. It can use sensor data to detect potential hazards, such as gas leaks, fires, or water leaks, and trigger automated responses. Combined with video analytics, it can identify suspicious activity or unauthorized access and alert security personnel in real time. AI-powered chatbots can handle routine inquiries and provide instant support to building occupants, improving customer service and reducing response times.

With these technologies, buildings are able to operate more efficiently and sustainably, contributing significantly to the broader goal of reducing the carbon footprint of the built environment and creating a more reliable and comfortable environment for building occupants.

Aden has been a key player in the building management industry for over 25 years. How has Aden adapted to the changing needs and expectations of society?

Aden’s growth from its foundation in Vietnam in 1997 to its presence in more than 25 countries reflects our adaptability and foresight in the face of market changes. Unlike traditional players, Aden has built in-house expertise across all areas of building management, offering strategic and comprehensive solutions to our clients. This approach enables us to truly understand the evolving needs of our clients and provide tailor-made services from day one.

Over ten years ago, Aden was one of the first companies to prioritize sustainable solutions and real-time data, which led to the launch of Akila, a digitalization platform for decarbonization, powered by digital twin technology. This platform helps optimize energy and environmental impact, integrate smart building technologies, and enhance overall facility management.

Aden’s partnership with innovative Vietnamese companies, like FPT Software, further strengthens our ability to deliver cutting-edge solutions. Through our collaboration, we provide to their company facility management services while also integrating their VertZero carbon monitoring solution into our Akila platform, creating a powerful synergy that enhances both companies’ offerings.

As the leader of Aden Vietnam, how do you envision the company’s future growth and developments?

Aden continues to pioneer the industry with our R&D center in Hanoi spearheading the expansion of our digitalization capabilities. The integration of AI into our Akila platform is central to our strategy for the future. Additionally, new projects like NxPark, which focuses on real estate, construction, and engineering, as well as Aden Energy, which targets renewable energy and energy efficiency, are paving the way for our continued growth in Vietnam. We are now able to help our clients’ projects be fully sustainable from the conception (sourcing land, building design) to the full completion (building construction and operations). No other company in the world has this level of project integration.

As a leader of building management, Aden Vietnam will continue to adapt and innovate, anticipating the global trends in the industry. We are eager to contribute to Vietnam’s net-zero carbon objectives and support the nation in achieving its sustainability goals.