IoT People Counter

IoT people counters are devices that use Internet of Things (IoT) technology to monitor and count the number of people entering or exiting a specific area in real-time. Understanding the utilisation of buildings or spaces provides significant strategic value to owners, operators and occupiers across various sectors, from retail to offices, by optimising staffing and energy consumption based on occupancy levels. The adoption of IoT devices has increased, especially after the global pandemic, as businesses seek to right-size their commercial real estate footprints. While occupancy data can also be collected through swipe cards and CCTV, IoT devices offer higher accuracy and granular data needed for informed real estate decisions. Types of IoT devices include infrared solutions, computer vision cameras and ultrasonic sensors, with both cabled and battery-powered options available. Each sensor type has limitations regarding floor-to-ceiling height, deployment and accuracy. Choosing the right sensor depends on the location and required accuracy level. For example, if an accuracy level above 70% is sufficient, alternative data collection methods like keycard data may be adequate.

IoT people counters use advanced sensors to detect and count individuals, transmitting data to a central system via networks like Wi-Fi, LoRaWAN, or NB-IoT. The value of the data depends on the use case and sector. In retail, understanding footfall trends can inform event strategies and support rental values. In commercial offices, occupancy data helps manage staffing levels and optimise building systems for energy efficiency. For tenants, IoT devices provide insights into desk and meeting room utilisation, aiding workspace design and real estate decisions. In large build-to-rent and student accommodations, IoT devices optimise energy consumption by detecting presence and managing energy use in common areas. Applications of IoT people counters include monitoring occupancy, managing queues, and enhancing security in retail stores, airports, museums, and other public spaces. Privacy concerns, especially with GDPR in Europe, require clear communication and review of how occupancy data and images are processed during procurement.