University known for IT experiences advantages of single-source controls
The University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) is a well-respected institution with a combined student population of 15,000 - midsized in comparison to larger universities. But the Carnegie Foundation ranks UMBC in the top tier of national research universities, and UMBC consistently places among the top five research universities in production of bachelor's degrees for Information Technology. Its well-earned prestige is one reason for the rapid growth UMBC has experienced over the years.
In planning for anticipated growth in new buildings, the university was concerned about the cost of installing and servicing the HVAC control systems in each of its facilities. It wanted one point of access for building controls rather than multiple systems that would not interact. This was especially true with the fume hoods that dotted the science and physics labs.