Gated Communities have become tech-savvy with increasing technological interventions at the services and maintenance end. This development has changed resident experiences in real estate and property management today. Pradeep Lala, MD & CEO, Embassy Services Pvt. Ltd, enumerates tech and smart solutions adopted at their properties.
Larger gated communities with multiple amenities and residential units are experiencing a significant transformation fuelled by advanced technology, with security and user experience at its core. Pradeep adds, “Facility Managers who have experience in managing properties across the real estate spectrum understand these needs. One such landmark initiative is the Embassy Residential App which serves as a comprehensive solution for community living needs, offering features like booking clubhouse amenities, booking appointments in the salon, booking lounge facilities, managing individual accounts, hosting community events, handling complaints, in-house vendor management, and visitor tracking to streamline daily tasks.” The TCFM wing of ESPL has a workforce of over 18,000 people, and technology tools customized for enhanced operational delivery.
FM companies incorporate security technologies like facial recognition, perimeter intrusion detection systems, and CCTV surveillance. Boom barriers installed at multiple communities managed by ESPL facilitate seamless traffic control by restricting entry to only those with the designated QR codes, enhancing security measures.
Planned Predictive Maintenance (PPM) solutions enable proactive infrastructure monitoring, reducing maintenance costs and minimizing downtime by detecting potential issues before they escalate. For example, the Digital Logbook module digitizes HK (Housekeeping) and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Power) checklists, ensuring adherence to top-notch standards while streamlining supervision.
Could you elaborate on the use of robotics within the realty sector?
As an FM company, we have the future-first approach to all our initiatives, managing over 130 million square feet of area Pan India, we recognize the importance of various initiatives tailored to different sectors. This understanding has enabled us to conduct pilot projects at our residential sites, aimed at identifying the most cost-effective yet innovative solutions to enhance residents’ experiences.
For example, in larger gated communities like Embassy Springs, spanning over 200 acres, we have implemented automated mobile road sweepers, and battery-operated cleaning machines controlled via app or mobile. “Additionally, to ensure quick resolution of issues such as lift breakdowns or emergencies in such vast communities, we have equipped the site with segways, enabling swift response times.”
In property management, robotics is transforming maintenance and cleaning processes. Autonomous cleaning robots, equipped with sensors and AI algorithms, can navigate indoor spaces, detect obstacles, and perform tasks like vacuuming, mopping, and scrubbing. At Embassy Lake Terraces, we have integrated this automated cleaning equipment for floor scrubbing and lifting heavy loads, thereby reducing strain on our workforce. These robots enhance operational efficiency, maintain hygiene standards, and mitigate health risks associated with manual labour.
How is sustainability built into the design and operations of gated communities?
“We prioritize the establishment of Green Spaces and Biodiversity within our communities.” This commitment entails preserving existing natural habitats, installing EV charging facilities, establishing green corridors, and incorporating parks, gardens, and green rooftops into the community design.
It is important to address smaller actions that contribute to energy efficiency for HVAC systems, we also focus on initiatives like controlling temperatures in conference rooms when not in use. Our daily operations include ensuring technicians are readily available in-house to address minor inconveniences like lift breakdowns for residents. Furthermore, facility management companies prioritize sourcing sustainable in-house vendors and consumables to align with our sustainability goals.
Energy-efficient design is central to the sustainability approach. “We install, operate, and maintain renewable energy systems like solar rooftops, fostering energy management and cost savings. Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling are crucial, reducing reliance on external water sources. We prioritize low-flow fixtures to minimize water consumption and employ water-efficient landscaping practices to preserve resources. Organic waste converters are key to reducing landfill waste. Moreover, we implement preventive maintenance measures like Planned Preventive Maintenance (PPM) to extend asset lifecycle and minimize resource use.”
The in-house team of Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), called the Specialist Services Group, is pivotal in advising and auditing properties to uphold sustainable practices. These experts specialize in water and waste management, technology integration, and Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) standards, offering valuable guidance to bolster sustainability efforts.
How do the facility management teams ensure that all aspects of your services are met?
“With most of our residential portfolio managers being women, we bring empathy and understanding to the forefront. We cater to the diverse needs of residents of all ages, including pets, within our communities.”
At Embassy properties, the green spaces prioritize functionality, with benches for seniors and safe play areas for children. High railings ensure safety for toddlers and pets, while dedicated staff manage foot traffic in paw parks and toddler areas.
World At Your Service (WAYS): The 24/7 WAYS offering ensures that every aspect of service meets sustainability and luxury living standards. “From bed-making to pool maintenance, we provide elevated home-assistance services, reflecting our commitment to excellence.”
Facility management teams undergo rigorous training on sustainability practices, eco-friendly technologies, and 5-star hospitality standards. This equips them to deliver services aligned with our commitment to environmental responsibility and luxury living.
Through CSAT surveys, facility managers gather feedback from residents and stakeholders to enhance sustainability initiatives and service offerings continually.
ESPL’s in-house improvement program fosters collaboration to implement cost-effective solutions across various fields, including Fire & Safety, Energy Management, Flood mitigation, and Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS). These projects undergo rigorous scrutiny before implementation, ensuring continual enhancement of our operations.
In the next generation of gated communities, several new developments and services are likely to become essential to meet the evolving needs and preferences of residents. The trends and innovations that are expected to shape the future of gated communities include smart infrastructure and connectivity, automation in property management, sustainability and eco-friendly practices, tech-driven security, safety and flexible & multi-use spaces.